By claiming the right to appoint military commanders without the king's approval, it was a significant step in events leading to the outbreak of the First English Civil War in August.

[3] The only permanent military force available were the trained bands, or county militia, controlled by lord lieutenants, who in turn were appointed by the king.

In December 1641, Sir Arthur Haselrige introduced a militia bill giving Parliament the right to nominate its commanders, not Charles, which was passed by the House of Commons.

[4] The bill was returned to the Commons for approval the same day, then passed to Charles for his royal assent, required for it to become a legally binding Act of Parliament.

[5] Charles responded to this unprecedented assertion of parliamentary sovereignty by issuing Commissions of Array, although these were statements of intent, with little practical impact on the raising of armies.