This film is part of Free
International Exchange
Early propaganda film setting out an emotive case for 'fair trade', or tariff reform
Overview
This fascinating early propaganda film enacts one of the key political battles of the early 20th century, between advocates of free trade and protectionism. As in many political cartoons of the time, Britain is represented by the steadfast figure of John Bull, who opens his door to traders from the USA, Germany, Russia and the Netherlands while they in turn impose tariffs on his goods. Finally he cottons on to this injustice and introduces tariffs of his own, with special privileges for his colonial partners Canada and India.
The film, which launched a series on political subjects from the Hepworth Company, comes down firmly - aggressively even - on the side of 'fair trade', that is, tariff reform. The latter is represented by a young woman who protects the interests of the working man and his family, while a witchlike old crone makes the case for free trade. The issue was tearing apart the Conservative-led coalition government, still reeling from the 1903 resignation of Joseph Chamberlain, one of the loudest voices for tariffs. Prime minister Arthur Balfour himself resigned in December 1905 and the general election in January would see the Conservatives crushed in a landslide win for Sir Henry Campbell-Bannerman's free trade supporting Liberal Party.
Related
Vote for Froglet Vote for Froglet
Animation & Artists Moving Image 1974 7 mins
As the general election is held in the UK, it's polling day for the Clangers on a small blue planet far away.
Sam Small at Westminster Sam Small at Westminster
Promotional 1935 3 mins
It's the 1935 general election and Stanley Holloway recites a comic monologue promoting the policies of the National Government.
Bristol Fashion Bristol Fashion
Party political broadcast 1959 25 mins Location: Bristol
The Labour Party takes a heartfelt look at Bristol council’s social(ist) housing and education agenda, spinning a 'new story from an old city'.
Mr. Jenkins Pays His Rates Mr. Jenkins Pays His Rates
Documentary 1957 19 mins Location: Slough
Slough gets a resounding thumbs-up from a reluctant ratepayer in a surprising 1950s government film.
Socialist Car of State Socialist Car of State
Animation & Artists Moving Image 1930 9 mins Silent
Party-political hyperbole meets Wacky Races in this spirited cartoon produced for the Conservative Party.
Children and Politics Children and Politics
News 1964 3 mins
Some remarkably well informed (well, for the most part) children interviewed prior to the 1964 General Election.
New Perspectives: Oldboy New Perspectives: Oldboy
Short documentary 2024 4 mins
Discover why Luke Bean of Northumbria University believes everyone should experience Oldboy at least once.
New Perspectives: Wings of Desire New Perspectives: Wings of Desire
Short documentary 2024 4 mins
Samantha Arnold of Northumbria University offers fresh insight into why Wings of Desire remains essential viewing.
Horace Ové on Pressure Horace Ové on Pressure
Inside Film 2005 36 mins
The acclaimed director discusses his landmark film in this interview from 2005.
Baltimore - Exclusive Q&A Baltimore - Exclusive Q&A
Short interview 2024 28 mins
Directors Christine Molloy and Joe Lawlor dig deep into their thrilling biopic Baltimore, in discussion with Nadia M Oliva.
Pressure star Herbert Norville on Horace Ové's masterpiece, the first full-length Black British film Pressure star Herbert Norville on Horace Ové's masterpiece, the first full-length Black British film
Inside Film 2024 17 mins
Actor Herbert Norville discusses working with the pioneering filmmaker on his groundbreaking 1975 drama, Pressure.
Horace Ové: Reflecting the People – A Career Retrospective Horace Ové: Reflecting the People – A Career Retrospective
Inside Film 2024 77 mins
An impassioned discussion on the life, work and legacy of the eminent filmmaker Horace Ové, chaired by Samira Ahmed.