How Accurate Is It To Describe The Government As Liberal Tory Essay Example

Whigs. This era of "Liberal Toryism" witnessed a change of personnel in Liverpool's government, such as the replacement of Sidmouth with Robert Peel as Home Secretary in January 1822.

In August 1822, Castlereagh, who was the Foreign Secretary, committed suicide. He was later replaced by Canning. In January 1823, Robinson took over Vansittart's position as Chancellor while William Huskisson became President of the Board of Trade. These four individuals were known as the "Liberal Tories" due to their policies during this time. It is important to analyze these policies to determine the extent of their liberalism before concluding whether it is fitting to label this era as "Liberal Toryism". Robert Peel, appointed as Home Secretary, dedicated efforts into reforming the penal system and ensuring its success.

Before Peel's appointment, the penal system was deemed severe, resulting in many criminals being sent to Botany Bay, Australia, and over two hundred crimes facing the death penalty. Due to this, verdicts of guilt were opposed by juries, leading to many instances of accused individuals receiving no punishment, which was deemed more just than the death penalty. Peel's reforms brought about a removal of the death penalty for over one hundred and eighty cases, revised the punishments given for lesser crimes, and improved legal proceedings, overall making the entire system more equitable.

Peel, during his time as a politician, implemented various reforms to improve prison conditions and law enforcement. In 1823, he instituted the Gaols Act which aimed to rectify the overcrowded and unsanitary conditions of prisons. Subsequently, in 1829, he established the Metropolitan Police Force during Wellington's government. It is worth noting, however, that while these reforms were considered "liberal",

Peel borrowed many ideas from other penal reformers like Sir James Mackintosh. Huskisson, who was appointed as President of the Board of Trade, advocated for free trade. As such, he proposed modifications to the Navigation Acts which were introduced to parliament by London merchants. This amendment allowed ships from any country to bring goods instead of being limited to English ships or those of the country where the goods came from. Huskisson also reduced import duties and signed the Reciprocity of Duties Act in 1823.

The agreement aimed to reduce tariffs between multiple countries. Huskisson and Robinson worked closely together. While Vansittart faced difficulties, Robinson had an easier task due to a successful economy driven by Huskisson's work. Robinson managed to balance the budget by decreasing taxation, primarily on items purchased by the wealthy. He believed this benefited everyone, as the wealthy would require more workers, ultimately benefiting the poor. In 1924, Robinson broadened the concessions to include more staple commodities such as coal and wool.

Robinson's job was made simpler due to Huskisson's assistance, but the stability of the government still relied on the backing of landowners. This meant that the reforms proposed by Robinson and Huskisson were restricted as they had to ensure that none would unfavorably affect the wealthy. Consequently, the extent of their "liberal" reforms was dictated by the landowners' approval. Regardless, Robinson displayed astuteness and aimed to increase the prosperity of all classes. This was evidenced by his decision to reduce taxes on goods purchased by wealthy individuals instead of solely focusing on their interests.

Although Huskisson's contributions were significant, his reputation was impacted negatively due to the declining exports and

worsening conditions in 1925. On the other hand, Canning, who replaced Castlereagh as Foreign Secretary in 1922, quickly gained popularity and earned the nickname "the friend of the peoples". Canning's policies displayed a liberal approach as he advocated for liberty in Greece, Spain, Portugal and supported South American republics' freedom and independence. His personal charms contributed to his apparent progressiveness despite his moderate stance and unorthodox ambitions.

Despite his support for Catholic emancipation, Canning's positions on other issues earned him the reputation of being less than liberal. He defended the actions of magistrates at Peterloo, supported the Six Acts, and opposed electoral and penal system reform. Despite these stances, many view Canning as the only one of the "Liberal Tories" who can be considered truly "Liberal" under Liverpool's government, largely due to his policies and manner.