He had repudiated his pledge to abstain from arbitrary taxation of imports and exports.

He sold monopolies to the merchants in exchange for increased customs.

He wrested supplies from the clergy by arrangements with the bishops or the Pope.

There were signs that Edward was longing to rid himself of the control of Parliament altogether.

The power of the Houses seemed indeed as high as ever; great statutes were passed.
Those of Provisors and Praemunire settled the relations of England to the Roman Court.