1231 Henry III's Writs

In 1231 Henry III issued three writs which promoted the security and privileges of the University versus the town.

The writs recognised the power of the Chancellor and Masters of Cambridge to act as a legal corporation. The chancellor furthermore had the power to invoke, via the Bishop of Ely, the aid of the Sheriff to arrest "rebellious clerks who would not be chastised by the Chancellor and Masters". The Sheriff was also to expel from town students not under the supervision of a Master of Schools. Thus any students remaining would be under the jurisdiction of the University. The "taxation" of halls was also recognised.

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