Royal Assent by Commission Act 1541 facts for kids
| Act of Parliament | |
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| Long title | An Act concerning the Attainder of the late Queen Catherine and her Complices. The Bill of Atteynder of Mestres Katherin Hawarde late Quene of England, and divers other personnes her complices. |
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| Citation | 33 Hen. 8. c. 21 |
| Other legislation | |
| Repealed by | Royal Assent Act 1967 |
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Status: Repealed
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The Royal Assent by Commission Act 1541 was an important Act passed in England in 1542. This law was created to deal with serious accusations against Queen Catherine Howard. It also changed how new laws were officially approved by the monarch.
This Act was a special type of law called a bill of attainder. This meant it declared Queen Catherine guilty of certain actions without a regular court trial. The Act stated that she had broken important rules. Because of this, all her belongings were taken by the Crown. The Act also introduced a new way for the monarch to give their official approval, known as royal assent, to new laws.
Contents
What is Royal Assent?
Before 1542, the king or queen had to be physically present to approve a new law. This involved a special ceremony. During this ceremony, the entire text of the new law would be read out loud.
Why the Change to Royal Assent?
King Henry VIII wanted to avoid this long ceremony. So, Parliament added a new part to this Act. This new part allowed the Royal Assent to be given by special representatives. These representatives were called commissioners. They could approve laws on behalf of the king or queen.
How the New Method Became Normal
At first, this new way of giving Royal Assent was not used very often. However, over time, it became more and more common. Eventually, it became the usual way for laws to be approved. The last time a monarch gave Royal Assent in person was Queen Victoria in 1854.
The Act Today
The Royal Assent by Commission Act 1541 was officially cancelled. This happened when the Royal Assent Act 1967 was passed. However, the role of the commissioners, who approve laws for the monarch, was kept. This means the system started by the 1541 Act is still used today.
