 A key part of Strafford's programme was to demonstrate the Crown's ability to manage the Irish Parliament, and for this purpose a compliant Speaker was essential.Strafford chose Catlin as "a very able man and one who will in all things apply himself to his Majesty's service".It has been argued that Strafford also intended to conciliate the Roman Catholic members by selecting a man who, though a Protestant, was generally seen as well-disposed to Catholics.