Expert: Joseph Logue - 3/9/2007

Question
Why did Peel fall from power in 1846?

Answer
Hello Melanie,

Sorry to keep you waiting but I was away from my computer for a bit.

I was not immediately familiar with the story of the resignation of Sir Robert Peel in 1846, so I consulted the Web site of the Prime Minister, http://www.number-10.gov.uk/output/Page151.asp  I found this, which I quote at length:

Failed harvests

In 1845, Peel faced the defining challenge of his career. Failed harvests led much of the population to call for the repeal of the 30-year-old Corn Laws that forbade the import of cheap foreign grain. The crisis was triggered by the Irish potato famine. Unable to send sufficient food to Ireland to stem the famine, Peel eventually decided the Corn Laws must be repealed out of humanity.

But land-owners saw the attempt as an attack on them, and fiercely protested in the House of Commons. Peel's Conservative Party would not support him, and the debate lasted for five months.

Eventually, in June 1846, the Corn Laws were repealed. However, on the very same day Peel was defeated on another bill, and resigned for the final time.


I hope that helps, and it seems like a thorough explanation.  Thanks for visiting AllExperts!

Sincerely,

Joseph Logue