Parliament concerns
In addition to taxation and freedom of speech, Parliament was concerned about marriage, religion and the issue of monopolies.
Marriage
Some MPs felt Elizabeth should name a suitor to marry and produce an heir in order to secure the line of successionInheriting or taking up a position or title.. Elizabeth’s response was that this was her private business and she would marry when and if it was convenient.
At present it is not convenient; nor never shall be without some peril unto you and certain danger unto me
Religion
Elizabeth was a ProtestantChristians who broke away from the Roman Catholic Church during the Reformation. They believe in the teachings of the Bible but reject the authority of the Pope. and reinstated the Church of EnglandThe Church of England (C of E) is the official Protestant state religion of England. Its supreme governor is the monarch of the UK, with the Archbishop of Canterbury as the most senior priest. when she came to power but, wanting to avoid religious conflict, she offered a ‘middle way’ which did allow some CatholicThe Church in Western Europe before the Reformation. The Pope was head of the Church. A member of the Roman Catholic Church. worship and traditions. Some PuritanStrict Protestants who wanted to get rid of ritual in church services and lead a plain and simple life. MPs disagreed with this compromise and challenged Elizabeth by threatening to not grant her taxes. Elizabeth said religion was a ‘matter of state’, not for Parliament, and forbade them to discuss religion.
Monopolies
Monopolies gave individual nobleSomeone of high rank with a title. and merchants the sole right to manufacture or sell particular goods. Elizabeth intended for monopolies to promote business and boost the economy, but because one person now controlled the supply of a particular product it meant that prices rose. Elizabeth, who started her reign nearly £250,000 in debt, also made money from granting the monopoly licenceA royal licence which gave individuals the sole right to manufacture or sell a product. licences.
Towards the end of Elizabeth’s reign some MPs felt monopolies were unfair and were being abused. They protested against them in 1597-8 and 1601 and would not grant taxes until they had been withdrawn.
At this stage Elizabeth compromised and withdrew some monopolies. She also made a long speech flattering Parliament, which became known as her ‘Golden Speech’ which again showed her to be a clever and shrewd ruler.
