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Alas Quote by Boris Johnson

“Do you seriously propose that they are going to be so insane as to allow tariffs to be imposed. The EU is, I'm afraid a job destroying engine. You can see it all across southern Europe, you can see it, alas, in our country.” quote by Boris Johnson
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“Do you seriously propose that they are going to be so insane as to allow tariffs to be imposed. The EU is, I'm afraid a job destroying engine. You can see it all across southern Europe, you can see it, alas, in our country.”

Boris Johnson

About This Quote

Source Speech: House of Commons debate on EU tariffs, 2022

The speaker warns that EU tariffs act as a job‑killing engine, harming economies across Southern Europe and domestically.

In simple terms: Tariffs hurt jobs and economies.

Key Takeaway

Consider alternative trade policies.

Themes

economics politics employment trade policy

Mood

concerned critical

Type

political economic

When to use this quote

  • government policy review
  • business strategy
  • public advocacy
  • economic planning

Key Concepts

protectionism economic impact labor market regional disparity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance protection and growth?
  • What alternatives exist to tariffs?
A Different Perspective

Tariffs may protect certain industries but can cause broader harm.

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