The linen trade and the customs' duties

Abstract

Such, then is the nature of the depression in the linen business, and I propose to show 1st. That for this depression our system of levying taxation by customs' duties is responsible. 2nd. That customs' duties are indefensible (a) On the principles of free trade; (6) On the maxims of taxation generally received; and 3rd. I shall suggest, subject to your better judgment, what is best to be done in order to get rid of a system so injurious to us, and in particular to develop the linen trade, and thus give prosperity to Ireland.