Question

What was ‘Corn Laws’?
A.Restrictions on import of corn
B.Permission on import of corn
C.Restrictions on export of corn
D.Permission on import of corn

Answer 1

Hint: The population in Britain grew from the 18th century. This put a lot of demand on the food grains. This was facilitated by growth in urban and industrial areas; thus increasing the demand for agricultural goods. We witness a sharp rise in the prices of food grains like corn. In this context, laws had to be devised to control their supply.

Complete answer:
Under the aforementioned conditions, the landed groups pressurized to restrict import of corn. The laws which allowed the government to restrict the import of corn were commonly known as the Corn Laws.
Soon, the corn laws had to be abolished as the urban dwellers who are industrialists were unhappy with the rising food prices. After this, food could be imported more cheaply than its production cost. British agriculture couldn’t compete with the cheaper imports and rendered many people in the agricultural sector unemployed. They migrated to cities or other countries in search of work.
The food prices soon began to fall, and consumption in Britain rose. From the mid 19th century, rapid industrial growth led to higher incomes and more food imports. Lands were cleared for food production and railways were facilitated to connect agricultural regions with ports. New harbors were built and old ones were expanded to ship new cargos.

Hence, the correct answer is option (A).

Note: Nearly 50 million people emigrated from Europe to America and Australia in the nineteenth century. The vast agricultural activities required capital and labour. Capital flowed from financial centres like London. The demand for labour was met in places where labour was in short supply like in America and Australia. This led to more migration.