Coxes statement that the true way of improving the Condition
of the working classes is to raise wages is one which we most heartily endorse, and have, indeed, again and again insisted on in these columns. The reason, said Mr. Cox; why he objected so much to these schemes 'Was that, instead of aiming at raising Wages, they tended to perpettiate poverty. Besides, if once they were to adopt schemes for anbaidising industries at the expense of the taxpayer, people would soon sky: " Why should we not subsidise industries in the sitepleet way, by putting a tax on imported foreign goods ?" The Chancellor of the Exchequer had described him (Mr. Cox) as the champion of lost causes. He 'Was not quite Sure what this meant. For the last eight or nine years be had devoted the greater part of his time to fighting for Free-trade. Was that a lost cause When he read the speeches of the Chancellor of the Exchequer, he was tempted to fear that his right hon. friend did think so. He, however, did not shark. those fears. Mr. Harold Cox's speech was full, not Only of trenchant criticism 'of the point in hand, but of Wise and sound dicta on the great social and political questions of the hour. It was a speech which will greatly increase a., reputation which has been steadily rising throughout this Parliament, a reputation achieved, not merely by ability, but by sincerity of thought and purpose.
Previous page
