The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 37

Freetrade and Direct Taxation

Freetrade and Direct Taxation.

Now I tell you that that which is interesting to you is, that taxes shall fall upon property, and that commerce shall be free. Whoever has spoken to you of freetrade without proposing other sources of revenue is a man that speaks that which is dishonest; you cannot repeal taxes upon commerce unless you place taxes upon property; and the object of my political life is that which I have now expressed, namely, to bring the higher classes to sec that they themselves must bear the burden, and the lower that their only refuge is the emancipation of their own industry from undue burden of taxation.

I reassert—making it still more distinct that you may comprehend it—that the cause of your complications in England—the cause of your political dissensions—the cause of the absence of social affections—the cause of all confusion and of the absence of political wisdom and unity, arises solely from this—That taxes are no longer collected upon property, but have been confided to the collectors of customs and excise.

The antient habits of England were different. In England formerly every Borough imposed its own taxes, and connected in one body of united discipline the sovereign of the state with his lowest subject. Until that condition is restored there will be no peace and no prosperity for England.

(D. Urqahart, M.P. for Stafford 1841.)