Local Government

• Government of the localities or counties was through nobilities and gentry. It was 'government of the county by the county for the county
• It was dependent on mutual interest and good will. It had developed from a medieval system of the need to keep the 'King's peace' meaning law and order
• To improve it and get it more efficient Charles issued the Book of Orders in January 1631: most of it was nothing new but it outline new practices for JPs and added penalities for non-compliance
• Some reform was necessary as traditional practices were cumbersome but Charles called upon local officials to assist him with non-parliamentary methods which tested their patience and conscience