Commissioners of Crown Lands (United Kingdom)

The Commissioners of Crown Lands, now known as the Crown Estate, are a statutory corporation in the United Kingdom responsible for managing the hereditary possessions of the Sovereign "in right of the Crown." This means the lands and holdings are not the private property of the monarch, but are held in trust for the nation.

The primary duty of the Commissioners is to maintain and enhance the value of the Crown Estate and the revenue obtained from it, passing the net revenue each year to HM Treasury for the benefit of the UK taxpayer. They operate independently of the government, although they are ultimately accountable to Parliament.

The Crown Estate's portfolio is diverse, encompassing urban property, agricultural land, forestry, mineral rights, and the seabed around the UK coastline. A significant portion of its holdings is located in London, including Regent Street and much of St James's. The foreshore and seabed around the UK, out to 12 nautical miles, are also managed by the Crown Estate, generating revenue from activities like offshore wind farms and marine aggregates.

The history of the Crown Estate dates back to the Norman Conquest, with subsequent monarchs granting lands to the Crown. Over time, these holdings became the Crown Estate. The modern structure of the Crown Estate and the Commissioners of Crown Lands was established through Acts of Parliament.

The Crown Estate Act 1961 governs the management of the Crown Estate. The Commissioners are appointed by the Crown and are responsible for overseeing the management of the Estate. Their activities are subject to scrutiny by Parliament and the public. The Crown Estate plays a significant role in the UK economy, generating substantial revenue for the Treasury each year.