5th Parliament of Elizabeth I

The Throckmorton plot, as it came to be known, was a foiled conspiracy to assassinate Queen Elizabeth and free Mary Stuart from house arrest.

Fears for the safety of Queen and country were amplified by the recent assassination of William of Orange, leader of the Dutch Protestants.

After two weeks' discussion of national security issues the debate turned inexorably to a proposal to control Jesuits and seminary priests, which was challenged by Dr William Parry, MP for Queenborough.

The usual question of supply (funds voted to the crown for the administration of the realm) was not settled until February 1585.

During the session a total of 31 Statutes and 18 private measures received royal assent, including an Act to preserve timber supplies by regulating iron mills.