Question

Which among the following is not the reason for the industrialists prefering hard labour over machines in England in the 18th century?

• A. There was shortage of labour
• B. Machines could only produce expensive products
• C. Machines could only produce standardised products
• D. Some products that required more skill could only be produced by hand

Answer 1

The correct option is A There was shortage of labour

In Victorian Britain, labour was in abundant supply. Poor peasants and drifters migrated to cities in great numbers looking for jobs. Additionally, machines were expensive and difficult to maintain. They could only make standardised goods. Other products that required more skill could only be produced by hand. Thus, industrialists preferred hard labour over machines.