What does the word praemunire mean in classical Latin?
In classical Latin, the term praemunire means to fortify and also to safeguard or to uphold. Medieval scribes confused this root with munera which translates to duties or civic obligations.
Questions about Praemunire
Short answers, pulled from the story.
When did the Statute of Praemunire pass during the reign of Edward III?
The Statute of Praemunire passed during the reign of Edward III in 1353. Parliament also passed a second major statute in the sixteenth year of Richard II's reign around 1393.
Who fell due to a charge of praemunire under Henry VIII?
Cardinal Thomas Wolsey fell due to a charge of praemunire. Lord Great Chamberlain Thomas Cromwell also met his end precipitated by this same charge.
What penalties were attached to praemunire under the original statutes?
Defendants faced forfeiture of lands goods and chattels under the original statutes. A person found guilty would be put out of the king protection entirely and their lands escheated meaning they reverted to the crown automatically.
When was praemunire facias no longer an offence in England Wales or Northern Ireland?
The Criminal Law Act 1967 brought into effect made praemunire facias no longer an offence in England Wales or Northern Ireland. This abolition occurred 51 years before Boris Johnson referenced it during Brexit negotiations.