Scot and lot

Scot and lot is a phrase common in the records of English,[1] Welsh and Irish medieval boroughs, referring to local rights and obligations.

The term scot comes from the Old English word sceat, an ordinary coin in Anglo-Saxon times, equivalent to the later penny.

In Anglo-Saxon times, a payment was levied locally to cover the cost of establishing drainage, and embankments, of low-lying land, and observing them to ensure they remain secure.

[3] Parliament had evolved from the king's baronial court, with the Commons being populated by representatives of the landholders who were too minor to call in person.

In some burghs, the franchise was set at scot and lot; that is, people were only permitted to vote if they were liable for the local levies.