ABSTRACT
The lack of precision in constitutional matters which obtained during this period is particularly noticeable with reference to the Privy Council and the Cabinet, the new informal body, which gradually took over many of the Privy Council’s functions. Charles II could fairly claim that he was not bound to consult the Privy Council as such on any matter, and that there was nothing to prevent him from asking the advice of a few Councillors informally or that of persons who were not Councillors. Charles II had a Privy Council during his exile, though it met but seldom and its importance was small. Throughout the period between the Restoration and the reform of 1679, and especially after the first few years following the Restoration, the labours of the Privy Council were lightened, and its control over affairs diminished, by the existence of numerous committees.
