Feature Stop Press It is often claimed that press censorship came to an end in England at the close of the 17th century. But it persisted, thanks to an unsavoury network of government spies. Joseph Hone | Published in History Today Volume 71 Issue 7 July 2021 The Compleat Auctioner (detail), English engraving, c.1700 © Bridgeman Images. To continue reading this article you will need to purchase access to the online archive. Buy Online Access Buy Print & Archive Subscription If you have already purchased access, or are a print & archive subscriber, please ensure you are logged in. Please email digital@historytoday.com if you have any problems.