Description
Book SynopsisWhat was the role of elected legislators? Was it to represent the opinions of constituents or to vote according to their informed opinions reflecting the needs of the kingdom? Most authorities have accepted Edmund Burke's depiction of 18th-century MPs, insisting it was their right to form their opinions without reference to the instructions of constituents. This study provides answers to these important questions and, in doing so, reveals that Burke's vision does not represent how the House of Commons functioned during the last two decades of the 18th century. Rather than focusing on specific issues or demographic groups,
English MPs brings to the fore the legislative activity of a broad segment of late 18th-century English MPs. This book shows they were diligent legislators who attended to the needs of constituents, in the process developing strong connections with them. It demonstrates that these connections did not rest on shared beliefs in reformist ideologies except in, and
Trade ReviewAn important study of how MPs helped shape the changing face of industrialising Britain in the second half of the 18th century against the backdrop of war and slavery. Professor McCahill’s extensive research into the work of MPs, constituencies, lobbies and petitioners transforms our understanding of the so-called ‘unreformed’ Parliament. * Miles Taylor, Professor of British History & Society, Humboldt University, Germany *
Table of ContentsList of Figures List of Tables 1. Introduction: English MPs and Legislation, 1754-1790 2. Knights of the Shire 3. Borough members: Plymouth, Kingston-upon Hull and Bristol 4. More Borough members: Blackstone, Newdigate and Windham 5. Thomas Gilbert, Legislator, par excellence 6. Essex Imbroglios 7. Interest Groups: The West India Interest 8. Lobbies: Birmingham, Leeds and the Fisheries 9. Parliamentary reform: instructions and representation 10. The Commons and the Lords: A Legislative Partnership? 11. Conclusion Bibliography
