Statement and Argument - Verbal and Reasoning

Directions to SolveEach question given below consists of a statement, followed by two arguments numbered I and II. You have to decide which of the arguments is a 'strong' argument and which is a 'weak' argument.Give answer:
  • (A) If only argument I is strong
  • (B) If only argument II is strong
  • (C) If either I or II is strong
  • (D) If neither I nor II is strong and
  • (E) If both I and II are strong.
Q1:

Statement: Should octroi be abolished? Arguments:
  1. Yes. It will eliminate an important source of corruption.
  2. No. It will adversely affect government revenues.

A Only argument I is strong

B Only argument II is strong

C Either I or II is strong

D Neither I nor II is strong

E Both I and II are strong

ANS:E - Both I and II are strong

Explanation: 'Octroi' is a custom duty. If octroi is abolished, the practice of bringing in things from foreign countries illegally will be abolished. So, argument I holds strong. Also, if octroi is abolished, the income to the government in the way of the duty paid shall be diminished. So, argument II also holds strong.