Protectionism does not aid development. Developing countries with open economies are catching up with rich ones; those with closed economies are falling further behind.
– Andrew Mitchell, the UK’s Shadow Secretary of State for International Development
Yeah because nothing wins votes like saying ‘vote for us and we’ll remove the jobs that you only have because of our protectionist policies.’
I like the sentiment but I don’t see anyone falling for it.
Tell the French farmers!
Never mind the fact that American and British commercial empires were built on protectionist policies…
In that case all countries should stop propping up airlines, manufacturers, hi-tech industries, the oil and power industries, etc., etc. through grants, subsidies…
Do as we say not as we do.
Yeah, the British corn empire is only the way it is because of protectionism. Oh, wait…