Parliament rejected any criticism that virtual representation was constitutionally invalid as a whole, and passed the Declaratory Act in 1766, asserting the right of Parliament to legislate for the colonies "all cases whatsoever."

What was virtual representation and why were the colonists opposed to it?

The concept of virtual representation means that every lawmaker represents not only the people from his or her area but also all the people throughout the country or empire. The colonists were upset because they didn't have representatives that they elected to Parliament.

How did the colonists react to virtual representation?

The colonists completely rejected the argument of virtual representation and opposed the tax on Stamps. But they could not suggest another way for England to raise more money.