Which was the main argument used by the British to justify taxing the thirteen colonies?

The main argument used by the British to justify taxing the thirteen colonies was that the colonies benefited from British protection and military support during conflicts, notably the French and Indian War. British officials contended that the colonies should contribute to the costs of this defense and the administration required to govern them. They believed that the taxes were a fair way to ensure that the colonies shared in the expenses of their own security and infrastructure.