There was a general move all over the country in Georgian England to enclose fields to use new methods of farming to increase food production for a growing population which involved taking over the open field system that had been in force in villages since Saxon Times, it was inevitable in such a movement that the existing landowners and aristocracy would take commercial advantage over the generally poor population in local parishes, particularly the owners of Rectories who could appoint Rectors of Parishes to take advantage of the huge wealth and landowning Churches.
In 1773 George 111 spoke of “The most real concern that the produce of the late harvest had not given the relief which we had hoped for in respect of the dearness of corn”
Times were difficult for everyone, after the 7 years war ended in 1763 the national debt rose from 55 million in 1755 to 132 million in 1763 and in 1765 a manic depression ensued. General Elections were automatically held only on the death of a monarch, and then throughout the entire Empire. The King appointed his Prime Minister , Party Politics only really evolved in Queen Victoria’s time. Commerce in small market towns like Newport Pagnell was not worried by Government Legislation.
Only 1 male in 12 had the vote and Life Expectancy everywhere was under 40 at that time.
Inflation was rife, a labourer’s family of 6 had half a pound of bacon a week and meat only for special celebrations. Bedford Workhouse provided meat at 4 dinners a week.
