The State’s Attitude and Response to the Threat Posed by Tobacco Smuggling in Ireland 1780–1850

Abstract

Tobacco as one of the ‘old reliables’ has presented governments with a steady and lucrative revenue stream that continues to this day. The enormous difference between tobacco’s prime cost and that paid by the consumer is due to the imposition of government duties. This revenue was particularly threatened in the period in question by smugglers and their land-based accomplices who were attracted by the considerable profit to be made because of such a differential in price. The state response to this threat included largely ineffectual legislation and the expensive establishment of state agencies to combat this threat. This approach was maintained despite ongoing appeals from economic commentators and members of the tobacco trade for a reduction in duty which they felt would make it uneconomical for smuggling to continue.