[2] And we order that if any judgments are given by royal justices which contradict the charters those judgements shall have no value.
[6] And we have likewise granted that I will not take taxation from the realm from now on, except with the common agreement of all the realm.
[7] And because by far the greater part of the community of the realm feel themselves greatly burdened by the taxation on wool, at their request we have completely revoked this tax.
King Edward is not prepared to see the new clauses added to Magna Carta, but has negotiated the issuing of a separate document. This is clever, or sneaky, depending on your point of view. The king realises that if he allows the barons to add new laws to Magna Carta, it would be very difficult to undo them without facing rebellion. Magna Carta is just too popular amongst the king’s subjects in England. But if the king issues new laws in a separate document, it would be easier to go back on his promises. And indeed, that is just what he has done. Edward has now said that the barons forced him to issue this new document against his will, and he has convinced the pope to support him. This document has now been revoked.
Edward I’s Confirmation of Magna Carta October 1297
E175/1/11
The National Archives
Test your understanding
Who must agree to the king collecting taxation?
I’m afraid that’s incorrect... Go back to the document and study it in a bit more detail... Don’t forget to listen to the transcript...
Excellent answer... You have studied the source carefully... The answer is indeed the people of the country. This is an important principle which still applies today.
Why does a great and terrible king need Magna Carta?
- Has Edward only re-issued Magna Carta because he needs money for his wars against France, Scotland and Wales?
- Or, once again, are the barons are simply trying to get out of paying the taxes which are needed to run and protect England?
- It is the view of this chronicle that Edward had re-issued Magna Carta because…
- Is it?
