Quarrels had repeatedly arisen between Parliament and the Crown about the revenue.
The grant of supplies in 1614 and 1640 had been made conditional by Parliament on the redress of grievances.
In 1665 supplies had been appropriated to a special purpose to prevent the monarch from spending the grant from Pariament as he pleased.
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The Settlement of 1690
The new Parliament was largely Tory and Caermarthen (Danby) became William's chief minister.
In the settlement of the Revenue of 1690, the Whigs where determined to settle and appropriate the revenue not only to prevent the monarch from wasting public money, but also to prevent him from securing the means with which to maintain a standing army without the consent of Parliament. By the settlement, Parliament was assured greatly strengthened control over the Crown in the work of the government executive.
The revenue of the Crown was fixed at £1,200,000 per annum in time of peace. Of this, £7000,000, the proceeds of the hereditary revenues and the excise were granted to William and Mary for life but was appropriated to the Civil List (which included the personal expenses of the monarch, the cost of the Royal Court, the payment of ambassadors, judges, other civil servants and pensions). About £600,000 (derived from customs) was voted for four years only and appropriated for public defence and the costs of government.
Commissioners were appointed to audit accounts and to ensure the proper appropriation of grants.
