FREE TRADE IN PERIL.
We learn by cable that a rupture has taken place between the French and English Governments on the question of resuming, with modified terms, the commercial treaties which Cobden arranged with admirable tact in 1860. The whole difficulty is explained by a reactionary feeling in France against the import of British manufactures. It is evident, on the other hand, that if protective duties have to be again put on, there are many industries in France which mnst suffer by being handicapped in the English market. The treaties have been continued in operation beyond the fixed date, hy each Government agreeing to let things remain until new terms could be arranged. The British Government now refuses any farther parley, which probably means that the French proposals lately made are utterly unacceptable. There is a limited amount of reaction in England against free trade. Other powers do not reciprocate; and British colonies are becoming increasingly protectionist. It is certain that Cobdeu’s liberal policy in the commerce
of nations has not liberalised the world, nor lias it won over a single foreign Power to free trade principles. Reciprocal concession between countries appears the only true principle that will stand wear and tear.
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Bibliographic details
Patea Mail, 23 August 1881, Page 3
Word Count
203FREE TRADE IN PERIL. Patea Mail, 23 August 1881, Page 3
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