Page "Roman Britain" Paragraph 72

Under the Roman Empire, administration of peaceful provinces was ultimately the remit of the Senate, but those, like Britain, that required permanent garrisons were placed under the Emperor's control.

In practice imperial provinces were run by resident governors who were members of the Senate and had held the consulship.

These men were carefully selected often having strong records of military success and administrative ability.

In Britain, a governor's role was primarily military, but numerous other tasks were also his responsibility such as maintaining diplomatic relations with local client kings, building roads, ensuring the public courier system functioned, supervising the civitates and acting as a judge in important legal cases.

When not campaigning he would travel the province hearing complaints and recruiting new troops.