Fletcher Norton, 1st Baron Grantley, English lawyer and politician, British Speaker of the House of Commons (b. 1716)

Fletcher Norton, 1st Baron Grantley (1716–1789): An Eminent English Lawyer and Statesman

Fletcher Norton, 1st Baron Grantley, PC (23 June 1716 – 1 January 1789) was a distinguished English barrister, influential politician, and a pivotal figure in the British Parliament during the latter half of the 18th century. His career spanned nearly three decades in the House of Commons before his elevation to the peerage, marking a significant transition from a commoner to a hereditary peer with a seat in the House of Lords.

Early Life and Legal Prowess

Born into a prominent Yorkshire family, Fletcher Norton embarked on a highly successful legal career before entering the political arena. He was called to the bar, specializing in the complex field of equity law, and quickly established a formidable reputation for his sharp intellect and forensic skills. His legal acumen earned him the prestigious appointment of King's Counsel, a recognition of his standing and ability within the legal profession, which further paved the way for his political aspirations.

A Rising Political Star: Service in the House of Commons

Norton's parliamentary journey began in 1756 when he was elected to the House of Commons, representing the constituency of Appleby. He would continue to serve as a Member of Parliament for various constituencies, including Guildford, until 1782. During his time in the Commons, he was recognized for his legal expertise, frequently contributing to debates on constitutional and legal matters. His pragmatic approach and command of parliamentary procedure made him an increasingly influential voice.

The Speakership: A Defining Role and Constitutional Assertions

Fletcher Norton's most significant role was undoubtedly his tenure as Speaker of the House of Commons, a prestigious and powerful position he held from 1770 to 1780. As Speaker, he presided over the debates, maintained order, and acted as the primary representative of the Commons to the Crown. His Speakership was notable for its assertiveness in defending the privileges and financial independence of the House against perceived royal encroachments.

A particularly memorable instance of his defiance occurred in 1777. When presenting a Bill for the increase of the King's Civil List (the amount of money allocated by Parliament for the support of the sovereign and the royal household), Norton boldly addressed King George III, emphasizing that the grant was a gift from the people, "cheerfully and liberally given, for the sake of His Majesty's honour, and the public welfare." He notably added that the Commons had "gone as far as their constituents could possibly expect." This public assertion of parliamentary financial control over the monarchy, while perhaps politically costly in the long run for his own career, resonated deeply with the Whig opposition and contributed to the evolving constitutional understanding of the relationship between the Crown and Parliament.

Elevation to the Peerage and Later Life

After a distinguished and often turbulent career in the Commons, Fletcher Norton was elevated to the peerage on 9 April 1782, becoming the 1st Baron Grantley of Markenfield in the County of York. This elevation signified his transition from the elected lower house to the hereditary House of Lords, where he continued to participate in parliamentary proceedings, offering his legal and political insights. His ennoblement was a recognition of his extensive public service, though some historians suggest it was also a convenient way to remove a challenging and outspoken Speaker from a powerful position in the Commons. He passed away on 1 January 1789.

Legacy

Fletcher Norton is remembered as a resolute defender of parliamentary privilege and an influential figure in the legal and political landscape of 18th-century Britain. His actions as Speaker, particularly his robust assertions regarding the financial prerogatives of the House of Commons, underscored the growing power of Parliament in relation to the Crown and continue to be studied as key moments in British constitutional history.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fletcher Norton

Who was Fletcher Norton?

Fletcher Norton, 1st Baron Grantley (1716–1789), was a prominent English lawyer and politician who served as Speaker of the House of Commons and later became a hereditary peer in the House of Lords.

What was Fletcher Norton's most significant political role?

His most significant political role was serving as Speaker of the House of Commons from 1770 to 1780, a period during which he famously asserted the financial independence of Parliament from the Crown.

When was Fletcher Norton raised to the peerage?

He was raised to the peerage as the 1st Baron Grantley on 9 April 1782, transitioning from the House of Commons to the House of Lords.

What does 'PC' mean in Fletcher Norton's title?

'PC' stands for Privy Councillor, a member of the Sovereign's Privy Council, an advisory body to the monarch, indicating his high standing and trust within the government.