Why did King Henry II trust Thomas Becket as his chancellor?

King Henry II trusted Thomas Becket as his chancellor primarily due to his exceptional efficiency, intelligence, and administrative brilliance. In a court often populated by uneducated or difficult barons, Becket stood out for his ability to manage complex tasks, such as conducting embassies, leading troops, and overseeing infrastructure projects like the Tower of London.1

Beyond his professional competence, Becket was a close companion and intimate friend to the king. He actively supported Henry’s political agenda to consolidate power within the monarchy, even when those efforts conflicted with the interests of the church. Their relationship was characterized by a deep personal rapport, with Becket serving as a loyal ally who shared in the king's activities at court and during the hunt.1