Sumptuary in United Kingdom

Concept of Sumptuary

The following is an old definition of Sumptuary [1]: “Under the head of public economy may be ranked all sumptuary laws against luxury, extravagant expense in dress, diet, and the like.” These laws were originally passed in England in the view that luxury, in some degrees, was opposed to public policy. Notable statutes were passed in 1336, 1363, 1463, and 1482; but all statutes were repealed in 1603, by 1 James I, c. 25. The habits, occupation, food, and drink.- the life of the individual, are severally matters for his own determination. They can be abridged by the majority of the people speaking through the legislature only when the public safety, the public health, or the public protection demands it. The constitutional guaranty of ” life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness ” can be limited only by the absolute necessities of the general public. See further Police; Prohibition.

Resources

Notes and References

1. Meaning of Sumptuary provided by the Anderson Dictionary of Law (1889) (Dictionary of Law consisting of Judicial Definitions and Explanations of Words, Phrases and Maxims and an Exposition of the Principles of Law: Comprising a Dictionary and Compendium of American and English Jurisprudence; William C. Anderson; T. H. Flood and Company, Law Publishers, Chicago, United States)