Gloucester, statute of

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Gloucester, statute of, 1278. This was an important attempt by Edward I to tighten up royal authority. Writs of quo warranto were to be issued to anyone claiming territorial franchises. The decision was much resented by the older nobility and the Earl Warenne was said to have protested sword in hand. But, in practice, most franchises for which no warrant or charter could be produced were confirmed on payment of a fine.

J. A. Cannon

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