The Age of George III

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Opposition to Liverpool's government from inside parliament

Following the assassingation of Spencer Perceval in May 1812, the administration of Lord Liverpool was formed in a political crisis. Liverpool was the Prince Regent's fifth choice of man to form a ministry and it was not expected that Liverpool's premiership would last long. During the period 1812-22, it could be said that England suffered more, economically, socially and politically, than during the French Wars. Consequently there were a number of manifestations of discontent and distress. There was opposition to the government's policies from both inside and outside parliament.

• Sir Francis Burdett, a wealthy radical and disciple of Horne-Tooke. He was elected for Westminster on Fox's death, thanks to the efforts of Francis Place, in 1807 . Burdett and Cartwright founded Hampden Clubs in 1811, to carry on the work of suppressed radical societies. Burdett became more conservative after 1815.
• Lord John Russell, who was only 23 in 1815. He was the third son of the Duke of Bedford and a traditional Whig. In 1819 he took up question of parliamentary reform and was responsible for drafting the 1832 Reform Act
• Earl Grey became an M.P. in 1786, and took up question of parliamentary reform in 1793. He entered the House of Lords in 1807 on the death of his father. He was an aristocrat, who was embarrassed by support of radicals. Had little political ambition but nonetheless became Prime Minister in 1830.
• Henry Brougham was of humble birth and became a lawyer. He became an MP. in 1810 and was a lawyer supporting Queen Caroline against George IV in their divorce case. Brougham was quick-witted versatile and sharp in debate but he had a tendency to be rash. The Whigs mistrusted him.