How did the Constitutions of Clarendon affect the king’s control over vacant bishoprics and monasteries?

The Constitutions of Clarendon, issued by King Henry II in 1164, significantly expanded royal authority over the church in England. Regarding vacant bishoprics and monasteries, the provisions granted the king two specific powers:

• Revenue Control: The king was entitled to the revenues generated by all vacant sees and monasteries during the period they remained unfilled.12
• Electoral Influence: The king was granted discretion in the filling of these vacancies, effectively allowing him to exert influence over episcopal elections.12

These measures were part of a broader effort by Henry II to codify what he described as the ancient customs of the realm, aiming to restrict ecclesiastical privileges and assert greater royal control over church-state relations. While Henry argued these rights were consistent with the practices of his predecessor, Henry I, they were viewed by Thomas Becket and other church leaders as an encroachment on the independence and legal authority of the church.132