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THE NEW PROTECTIONISM

however, are subject to the two defects which we saw were fatal to tariffs as methods of defence — the defect that the recoil is equal to the blow for offence, and the related defect that "two can play at that game." If we make it more difficult for Germans to sell their better or cheaper articles in this country, we compel our own people to buy and to consume dearer or worse articles. If we refuse to admit tenders from German firms for advertised contracts, we restrict competition, increase the probability of collusion between British contractors, compel ourselves to pay more, wait longer, or get inferior work. If we deny Patent Law protection, the same results ensue: either we do not get the special articles our people want, or we get them indirectly and with greater difficulty at a higher cost. If the articles we thus penalize are materials, machines, or processes serviceable to some British industry, as is the case with many German specialities, such as electrical and scientific instruments, dyes and chemicals,

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