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On July 2 1806, the House of Commons debated vaccination. Reading William Wilberforce's speeches on this occasion, it's as if the intervening two centuries never happened.
Vaccines bring a false sense of security to those who haven't been properly informed about them.
Anecdotal evidence is not sufficient evidence.
Wilberforce argued forcefully against compulsory vaccination...
...BUT also suggested that restrictions should be placed on those who refused to vaccinate. Virtually a carbon-copy of what is now being proposed.
Wilberforce emphasises the importance of balancing personal liberty with social responsibility - and protecting the vulnerable.
I'm tweeting this excerpt again in order to dwell on this powerful passage. William Wilberforce stood up in Parliament and said this in 1806.
"It is merely an act of security, rendered necessary in order to guard the lives of some of our fellow-creatures against infection"
"It is merely an act of security, rendered necessary in order to guard the lives of some of our fellow-creatures against infection"
The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Lord Henry Petty, offered this ringing endorsement for the often maligned 'experts'.
(This debate took place on Lord Henry's 26th birthday, incidentally. Makes you sick, doesn't it?)
(This debate took place on Lord Henry's 26th birthday, incidentally. Makes you sick, doesn't it?)
