dearth of statistical data submitted by interested
parties. But unfortunately, there has been very
little effort toward dispassionate investigation of
the concrete effects of tariff legislation from the
point of view of the public welfare.

The studies of special commodities, together with
more general discussions which are now in prepara-
tion and which will be based largely on the evidence
adduced in the, commodity studies, are designed to
meet this need. The purpose of each commodity
study is primarily to clarify the reader's mind with
respect to the actual relation of the tariff to the
industry in question. Pertinent facts are brought
out relating to the character, importance, and geo-
graphical distribution of the industry. Answers are
made to the questions: What has been its tariff
history? What is the present situation with respect
to the burdens and benefits of the tariff? What
would be the probable effects upon the industry and
upon the public of a change in the rate? Finally,
in the light of all the evidence available a conclusion
is arrived at as to what ought to be done.

In all matters except the conclusion the study
need make no reference to general tariff policy.
Each specific case can be studied simply on its own
merits. In some cases even the conclusion may be
arrived at without giving consideration to general
principles of tariff policy. The facts may point so
clearly to the futility or to the ill effects of a duty
that its removal appears desirable from any point

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