On the impolicy of a revival of protection as a remedy for the present depression

Abstract

With the now extended experience we have had of the vast benefits of free-trade, with the generally increased prosperity of the empire consequent thereon, with the augmented population of the sister kingdoms, and the increased well-being of our own, it may appear an unnecessary task to attempt demonstrating the inexpediency of curtailing such benefits, of lopping off a portion of such advantages, with the view of bolstering up this or that class interest, for this, in reality, is what is meant by would-be protectionists; nevertheless, as these protectionist notions seem to prevail among some sections of the community, it may be worth while to examine briefly as to the prevalence of such notions, to show their utter inadequacy if carried into effect, of relieving the present distress, and in the present temper of the times, the utter impossibility of carrying them out into action.