The Exchequer: a chequered history?
![Exchequer of Ireland at work. The chequered cloth is clearly visible on the table, around which several figures are engaged in passionate discourse.](https://history.blog.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2013/08/exchequer-ireland-e1376469837389.jpg)
The early Exchequer was once described as an occasion not an institution, referring to the somewhat ad hoc nature of its foundation and early days. Over 9 centuries later, the modern Exchequer retains a similar place in our national consciousness …