Peel’s economic and social policies were reasonably successful as they ensured a revival of the economy and an increase in support from the middle and lower classes. However, the definition of success in this context needs to be determined. Arguably, Peel’s own criteria for success can be used as he aimed to ‘make this country as cheap country for living’. Whilst there was an extent of economic prosperity that these reforms brought, their success can also be challenged. These reforms alienated support of the Conservatives towards Peel as he had not upheld their traditional protectionist values and principles and it can be argued that Peel was helped by favorable economic conditions and so it was not solely because of Peel’s actions that an economic revival had taken place. During Peel’s second ministry, Peel introduced many successful economic and social reforms. Having inherited a 7.5 million deficit in 1841 he turned this in to a 4 million surplus. This was done through an introduction of a series of budgets, in 1842 and 1845. Here, Peel pursued a policy of moving towards freer trade by removing tariffs from 600 articles in 1842 and abolishing all exports duties. This encouraged trade and cheaper goods, helping an economic revival. In 1845, duties were abolished completely, and economically the Budget was named a ‘masterpiece of administrative planning’. These moves towards freer trade were successful because they let the middle and lower classes gain. The appeal towards lower classes was especially evident through the way Peel introduced income tax - 7d only on incomes of over 150 pounds annually, meaning he was not putting a tax burden on those who could not afford it. Another economic policy was the abolition of Corn Laws in 1846. Despite being extremely controversial politically, it satisfied the lower classes and lowered food prices. This was especially important because of the famine that started in Ireland in 1845 - with the abolition of Corn Laws it was cheaper to buy food. As the vast lower classes were pleased, this encouraged even more supp