Description:During 1808, the Trent and Mersey Canal Company was attempting to persuade the government that it should be exempt from paying the 'poor rates.'
The 'poor rates' were local taxes raised by every parish to help deliver aid to the poor and to manage workhouses.
The canal company argued that its contribution to local economies justified the tax break. They wanted Parliament to rubber-stamp their exemption.
Many landowners were concerned that owners of land adjoining the canals would be granted exemptions too.
Misunderstandings
However, this pamphlet argues that this is not the intention of the company.
Rather, the reason for the exemptions is to guarantee a level playing field for businesses in all areas by obtaining universal exemption for the company.
In areas where the company made no profit, the company would not be taxed. Therefore, they would not have to pass on the costs to customers.
About this document
This document, printed by Wilks and Co. of New Street, Birmingham, was collected by pottery manufacturer Enoch Wood and is now among the collections at Stoke-on-Trent Museums.