ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the author describes the position of the British labourer. He compares the agricultural economy with that of other countries where the land is cultivated by its owner. The landowner obtains the greatest rent he can from his tenant, and the tenant obtains from his labourers the maximum of work for the minimum of wages. The employers and employed are parties to a keenly contested bargain and the labourer therefore naturally endeavours to obtain the maximum of wages for the minimum of work. Political Economy is therefore intimately concerned with any discussions which relate to the condition of the labourer; for the object which the science has in view, is to investigate the laws which regulate the production and distribution of wealth. Many countries are competing for British labour; if therefore the condition of industrial classes does not improve, that labour which creates wealth, and maintains greatness, will be attracted to other lands.
