The Diary of Thomas Burton: 17 March 1656-7

Tuesday, March 17, 1656–7.

The House this day resumed the debate upon the remonstrance.

Resolved, that the standing forces of this Commonwealth shall be disposed of by the chief magistrate, by consent of both Houses of Parliament, sitting the Parliament; and, in the interval of Parliament, the Chief Magistrate, by the advice of the council.

Lord Whitlock reported, from the Committee to whom the clause touching the judicial power of the other House was referred, the resolves of the Committee.

Whereupon it was

Resolved, that the other House do not proceed in any civil causes, except in writs of error; in cases adjourned from inferior courts, into the Parliament, for difficulty; in cases of petitions against proceedings in courts of equity, arid, in cases of the privilege of their own House.

Resolved, that they do not proceed in any criminal cause whatsoever, against any person criminally, but upon an impeachment of the Commons, assembled in Parliament, and by their consent.

Resolved, that they do not proceed in.any cause, either civil or criminal, but according to the known laws of the land, and the due course and custom of Parliament.

Resolved, that no final determinations or judgments be, by any members of that House, in any cause there depending, either civil, criminal, or mixed, as Commissioners or Delegates, to be nominated by that House; but all such final determinations and judgments to be by the House itself; any law or usage to the contrary notwithstanding.

Post Meridiem.

The House proceeded with the debate of the Remonstrance.

The ninth article was read.

Resolved, that these words, viz. "That such as do openly revile them, or their assemblies, or disturb them in the worship or service of God," be part of the Remonstrance.