AMERICAN TARIFF.

Waikato Times, Volume XXX, Issue 2454, 3 April 1888, Page 2

AMERICAN TARIFF.

It begins to be very apparent that the actual proposals in regard to lopping off excrescences from the tariff are not going to be very revolutionary or even important from free trade and protectionist points of view. And that is exactly what was to be expected from the first. There was not in 18S4, and there is not now, any substantial difference between the two great political parties in regard to the protective essence of a revenue tariff. The Democrats declared in their last national platform for a tariff that should raise no more revenue than was required for the purpose of the government, economically administered ; at the same time they were careful to say that as much protection to home industry should be got out of such a tariff as was possible to extract from it. The Republicans, at the same time, declared for a tariff sufficient to meet the requirements of the National Government, and that it should be prepared with special regard to the just claims of American labour. The two platforms were so much alike that it was impossible "to tell the 'tother from which." It was a case of six of one and half a dozen of the other. It will be the same similarity to the end. There are revenue reformers in both parties, and also strong and unqualified protectionists in each. The whole situation can be stated within the narrowest space. The existing tariff, which has come, to us from war- times, has survived a remarkable iucrease of population, and is now yielding more revenue than the Government can legitimately spend or either party justify. There would have to be a reduction, whichever party was iu power. In reducing or taking off protective duties, some interest or other is bound to think itself hurt, and to squeal accordingly. It happens that the Democrats, being in oflice, are responsible for initiating legislation, against them will be directed the opposition of the interests that may feel aggrieved. The same thing would happen to the Republicans if they were in power. The outs always have the advantage of the ins in regard to such matters. It is ever easier to stand still and do nothing than to fashion, originate, and build up. In the coming contest in Congress over the tariff, there will bo much posing for position and jockeying for advantages, but in like circumstances both parties would do pretty much the same thing. There is about as much protection and as little free trade in one as in the other. All pretences to the contrary arc notisence and humbug intended for political effect.—San Francisco News Letter.