Following the tumultuous events leading up to William of Orange's landing in England, the Convention Parliament convened to address the crisis of leadership following King James II's departure. James had fled to France amidst fears of losing power, effectively creating an absence that the Parliament sought to clarify. They debated the implications of his flight, considering it not merely an abandonment but an outright abdication. This interpretation showcased the growing authority of Parliament in the governance of England, challenging the traditional divine right of kings. It was during this critical juncture that the Parliament framed its resolution, addressing the need for a stable government in the absence of a reigning monarch.

The debate within the Parliament was fervent and underscored the divisions in the political landscape. Supporters of the existing monarchy argued for James's right to the throne despite his flight, while others promoted the necessity of a new royal figure to restore order. The notion of parliamentary sovereignty began to take hold, threatening the long-standing monarchical power. This declaration laid the groundwork for a constitutional approach to monarchy in England, heralding new governance structures that would evolve over the subsequent decades. As a result of this declaration, the Parliament moved toward inviting William of Orange and his wife Mary back from the Netherlands to take the throne as joint monarchs, culminating in the Glorious Revolution and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy.