NEN Gallery

It was argued that if we did not trade then other countries would and we would, so it was better for Britain to reap the benefits of this as it would make no difference. This is part of a speech to parliament in 1777.

Some gentlemen may, indeed, object to the slave trade as inhuman and evil; but let us consider that, if our colonies are to be cultivated, which can only be done by African negroes, it is surely better to supply ourselves with those labourers in British ships, than buy them from French, Dutch or Danish traders.

Temple Luttrell, speech in Parliament (23 May 1777)