(06-07-2019, 09:47 AM)mikesez Wrote:

(06-07-2019, 08:12 AM)MalabarJag Wrote: I do not support the use of tariffs to protect the "labour" market, hence my opposition to permanent tariffs. Reading comprehension is your friend. Is this an indication of the level of education in Britain? Or are you claiming to be Australian this week?

I support the current tariffs on China and Mexico because the are intended to end China's theft of intellectual property and Mexico's supporting illegal immigration, and because i expect the tariffs to end as soon as they achieve those goals. National defense is the one legitimate role of government, and tariffs used this way are a form of warfare. In that regard they are in the same class as imposing sanctions, although less offensive. This has nothing to do with "free markets," and I do not support government meddling in free markets.

 

If tariffs against China really are retaliation for them not respecting IP laws, the punishment at least fits the crime.
That's not the case with Mexico.
Whether or not Mexico prevents Central Americans from reaching its northern border has nothing to do with the cost of producing things in Mexico.