Commonwealth Press & Media

[Prydain]

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Traditional Union faces being locked out of government
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Four out of ten Traditional Union MPs abstain on Budget and Finance Bill (2023), the bill passes its first stage of reading but the showing of disloyalty to the coalition has deeply angered Deputy Prime Minister Glas who is requesting for the party to be thrown out the coalition unless its leader, De Rais enforces discipline among his MPs.

The bill itself offers no really change, it is a continuous of former Prime Minister Quine fifteen year government expenditure plan which increases public services spending to half a percent below yearly inflation alongside capping any tax increases. Both the Liberals and Democrats have to come an agreement to pass reforms within the framework set by the Quine's plan whereas the Traditional Union wants to rapidly increase defence & police spending.

Glas is known to be on friendly terms with De Rais but openly distrusted and some would say hates the majority of Traditional Union MPs due to their deeply held socially conservative views.

De Rais is on a personal crusade against any movement towards completing the last bits of decolonialisation, he see it as important duty of care for the government to ensure sovereignty over the last of the Commonwealth Protectorates believing any transfer of ownership or full independence granted would lead to mass blood shed.

 

[Prydain]

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Warships from Prydain start overseas operation for the first time since 1989
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A Commonwealth Coast Guard & Navy task group has set sail to the Gothic Sea to provide reassurances to international & domestic businesses that depend on open & free access to shipping lanes which are currently under threat from reported state-sanctioned piracy from Gutarike.

Due to operational requirements at home waters & yearly maintenance schedules, the Admiralty Board have just released one Medium endurance cutter from the Coast Guard and rerouted two frigates from the Navy's 539 Assault Flotilla who were sailing to Erinia.

Defence Secretary Wren has deemed it appropriate for quick action due to 30% of Prydain supply chain passing through the Gothic Sea and with companies already raising their prices by average of 1.4% for consumers. Thanks to Prydain holding a non-alignment stance towards major geo-political divides for nearly a century, the Admiralty Board hasn't intervene or involved the Commonwealth Coast Guard or Navy into the various disputes in the Gothic Sea with it in the past advising shipping companies to hire private security contractors during heighten tensions.

This time Defence Secretary Wren has ordered the Admiralty Board to provide direct security to companies that operate in the Gothic Sea through reconnaissance of piracy hot-spots and redirecting ships to safe waters. The task group is also open to assist all nations watered by the Gothic Sea and will strictly stay in international waters.

The government hasn't set a timescale of how long the task group will be sent to the Gothic Sea.

Erinia question will be solved by end of this decades promises Commonwealth Services Minister

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Nea Polis capital of Erinia and popular holiday destination​

Commonwealth Services Minister Donnan Coic has return from Erinia where he spent his Christmas meeting faith & community leaders while showing delegation from Pelasgia law enforcement operations on the Island.

Coic has said that his fact finding mission provided valuable information which will inform the coalition government policy towards decolonisation by end of this decade which could see full independence given to the last of the Commonwealth Protectorates.

Coic words will not bring any joy to Traditional Union MPs, four of whom have taken part in nationalist marches against what they call appeasement to Cyrene over Erinia and so far refuse to fall in line to the Party's Whip in protest.

 

[Prydain]

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Logo of the S.I.C
Sovereign Investment Council (S.I.C) provides cashflow to Commonwealth United Utilities as wholesale oil & gas prices continue to increase.
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S.I.C has chosen to sell several assets from its company portfolio after receiving a solid no from the Department of Industry to any changes to the incoming review of domestic & commercial energy price caps.

The 2022 cap puts the average yearly utility bill for a family home at 32,000 Manx Marks which is 25% of the average salary in Prydain that stands at 126,000 Manx Marks, the S.I.C requested the new cap to increase the average cost of a utility bills to 70,000 Manx Marks in order to cover rise in wholesale & gas prices. The Department of Industry refused to discuses any changes to the upcoming review until other avenues were explored.

Supermarkets across the country have shot up their food prices by 5% due to the biggest hit from the Gothic Sea situation being Germanic grain imported through the Holy Frankish Empire of which makes up 60% of the grain used by Prydain's food & drink industry, with it primarily used for animal feed & baked goods.

A spokesperson from the Coalition government has told CBA that the Prime Minister is working around the clock with the cabinet to bring stability to consumer prices and is looking at other sources of energy to bring down prices by next winter.

CBA given complete access to CNS Vesper lead ship of the Anti-piracy task group

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CNS Vesper in the Gothic Sea ​

A team from CBA will eat and sleep alongside the 50 strong crew of CNS Vesper who is spending 30 days patrolling the Gothic Sea due to threat to Prydain's economic & national interest, the Defence Secretary has ordered the Admiralty Board to make all available assets of the commonwealth navy & coast guard to be ready to patrol all international waters west of the Ostveg. This will be biggest deployment of the Commonwealth Defence Force since 1989 which saw the entire 539 Assault Flotilla & the 501st General Infantry Regiment sent to Erinia during the Zestos Sea standoff.

 

[Prydain]

CBA
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Employment reforms and restructuring of public services needed to economic downturn says Treasury​

The Treasury meets the Monetary Policy Committee of the Commonwealth Reserve as the Federation of Executive Directors and Trade Union Congress sound alarm over rising inflation & supply chain costs.

The Reserve predicts inflation to hit 14% next April way over their target of 4%, it is understood the Treasury is pushing the Prime Minister to increase the right to buy for social housing, 4 million people are renting from local councils and only 10% of the housing stock are available to buy.

The government has only planned to sell 50% of the stock by 2035 while making it mandatory for local councils to reinvest 75% of any profits made from sales in building new homes.

Other measures being considered by the Treasury are requesting the Reserve to increase interest rates by 0.75% for the next six quarters.

The Minister of Labour is adding the final touches to its employment reforms bill which will create new flexible hours contracts alongside capping rises in the national minimum wage framework which will affect around two million people in the services industry and low skilled production line workers.

The Trade Union Congress has lobbied against the cap but will follow the framework in current collective bargaining agreements its affiliate members have but have warned if living costs rise above the predicted 14% next April it will seek industrial action.

The Commonwealth Services Minister has been tasked to look at the pay grades of all public services employees with the aim to remove the 2.5% plus inflation salary increases, instead the pay rise this April planned to be 3%.

In a statement the Treasury said

"Ultimately the goal of the Treasury is to ensure the stability of public finances while the coalition government bring forward plans that will shield us from the Gothic Sea crisis alongside protecting our national interest long term."

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[Prydain]

CBA
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Six dead and ten injuried after unknown gunboat carries out unproke attack on anti-piracy task group​

In a devastating incident, an attack on a coast guard ship CCG Harlech and navy ship CNS Iron Duke resulted in the six crew members of the CCG Harlech being killed and ten others were badly injured.

The incident occurred yesterday afternoon while the crew were on a salvage mission in international waters off the coast of @Ostmark.


A distress call was received by the task-group from a Manx fishing boat who reported that they were being shadowed by an heavily unarmed unknown vessel that isn't answering their calls.

During the Gothic Sea crisis Manx fishing men continued to operate in the area but resorted to sail in groups of seven boats and armed themselves with hunting rifles & shotguns.

The government have advised all maritime traffic to avoid Gothic Sea unless it is part of a naval escort.

According to initial reports, the coast guard ship was investigating the Manx fishing boat which had sunk when they were approached by an unknown vessel, which opened fire on the both ships' crew without warning. The coast guard crew, who were carrying out diving operations with CNS Iron Duke as lookout for the time, immediately defended themselves but were caught completely in suripise.

The attackers were able to inflict significant damage on the ships before fleeing the scene.

The Prime Minister has issued a statement condemning the attack and expressing condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He also announced that the government will be sending additional ships and resources to the area to increase patrols and provide better protection for maritime activities in the region.

The Admintry board has launched an immediate investigation into the incident and is cooperating with local authorities to identify and apprehend the attackers.

This is a tragic and senseless act of violence and our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and loved ones of the crew members who lost their lives. The coast guard and the government have announced that they will be providing support and assistance to the families affected by this tragic incident.

 

[Nieveland]

Office for Foreign Engagement & Diplomacy
Republic of Nieveland

We call upon all nations to firmly condemn this tragic and senseless act of violence perpetrated against humble fishermen and Manx guardians of the sea. May those in Prydain know Nievish prayers are with them, with the families, and invested in the precious souls righteously destined for heaven above.

Without hesitation this Gothic Sea Syndrome must be isolated and treated with due haste. We are prepared to put aside ideological differences and historical priors with our regional neighbors to ensure that this Gothic Sea Syndrome does not take hold in the Engelsea or farther astray towards our partners in the Meridian. Armament & Armed Forces Commandant Richie has been advised to begin coordination with Manx coastal guardians to ensure potential piratical maniacs cannot exploit distances and disarray between regional states as they have already in the Gothic stew.

For Him,
OFED Officer John Lanpherson

 

[Prydain]

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Coffins of the fallen were taken from a local church to J.N.B Hunter Point to allow members of the public to pay their respects

Commonwealth Coast Guard holds funeral for crew members of CCG Harlech​

In a solemn ceremony, the funeral of the six coast guardsmen who lost their lives in the recent attack was held today at J.N.B Hunter Point. The men were given full military honours, as family, friends, and colleagues gathered to pay their respects.

The funeral was presided over by military officials and government dignitaries, who paid tribute to the bravery and dedication of the men who lost their lives in the line of duty. A minute silence was observed in memory of the fallen across the Commonwealth.

The family members of the fallen officers were presented with flags and medals, as a tribute to the service of their loved ones. The ceremony was emotionally charged, as family members and friends shared their memories and grief.

"It's a tremendous loss to our community, and we are all heartbroken by the tragedy," said one of the mourners. "These men were true heroes who gave their lives to protect our way of live. They will always be remembered and honoured for their service."

Commonwealth Army hands command of the 307th Marine Battalion over to Admiralty Board

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Men from the 307th Marine Battalion board CNS Vesper has they begin duties as a Naval Force Protection Unit ​

"We have fully released all our available defence assets to enhance the Anti-Piracy Task Group capability." Defence Secretary Wren said at press conference at J.N.B Twin Fox where the entire 539 Assault Flotilla were preparing to be deployed to the Gothic Sea. The Task Group have grown to seven navy frigates and four coast guard medium endurance cutters with CNS Vesper still being lead flag ship.

The government has faced pressure from the Admiralty Board who have blamed the deaths of six crew members of the CCG Harlech to lack preparation and suitable equipment. It is reported the Board refused to allow more naval escorts to take place unless refurbishment of equipment and more training of personnel was completed. As result of that pressure the 307th Marine Battalion has been handed over to the Admiralty Board, the battalion which is part of the army will provide close protection duties and will board with Coast Guard inspection teams. Alongside this two vessels from the 539 Assault Flotilla who were in annual maintenance period received extra equipment inspections and its crew undergone a two week pre-deployment training exercise.

Around 5% of the crew undergoing the course were reassigned to other duties due to being found not meeting operation standards while one crew member faces a dishonourable discharge after drug testing.

The Admiralty Board would not comment on any matters related to internal discipline and pre-deployment preparation stating national security concerns.

When questioned at the press conference about the rush nature of the deployment of the CCG Harlech, CNS Vesper and CNS Iron Duke at start of the new year, Defence Secretary Wren refused to comment by saying.

"I find it deeply offense to the family of the fallen that the press circle around any rumours that seem only designed to undermine the hard work and dedication of those that serve in the Commonwealth Defence Force."

Commonwealth United Utilities (C.U.U) completes diversifying of supply of wholesale gas

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C.U.U signs a three year deal with Pegasus International which will allow them access to Pegasus International's stockpile of gas primarily sourced from Pelasgian Natural Gas Corporation. One of the youngest company in Prydain, it was born from the creation of the financial services and removing of limits of private enterprise in the 90s, Pegasus International today manages about 6.5 billion Manx Marks/ 1.5 billion Euro Marks worth of assets ranging from property to coal.

The company had started to invest in a stockpiles of wholesale oil and industrial chemicals from across the world since 2004, with its position it has been able to secure a large quantity of gas reserves for the C.U.U at unknown price. As C.U.U majority share holder the Sovereign Investment Council has given its approval to the deal due to C.U.U haemorrhaging its cashflow.

C.U.U has said in a statement;

"Commonwealth United Utilities has secured a very good deal that will ensure energy cost for our domestic and retail customers will stay stable for the next few years alongside providing value to our share holders."

 

[Prydain]

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Fallout from Labour Party spilt continues​

With the Labour Party having full control of the sixty seats in the Senate for a century questions were raised about the fate of them after the Labour Party formally spilt this Month. As the Socialist Labour Party registered itself removing the Democratic Labour Party from the official political party list and Senators choice to stay silent on the matter.

It is now know that the all sixty senators of left the membership of the Socialist Labour Party and have follow in the footsteps of the ex-Prime Minister Quine , all currently sitting as independents with it believed a number of them wish to join the Democratic Party while others purely wish to resign from the position next spring.

This highlights the constitutional question over the existence of the Senate being a unelected second chamber, the coalition government are at odds with this question, Democrats believe in limited reforms to the Senate with members voted in by a electoral college, Liberals want a fully elected second chamber and the Traditional Union want to completely abolish the Senate but have not stated what they will replace it with.

At present the Deputy Prime Minister Glas is planning to create a vote in the House of Commons over holding a referendum next spring when half of the Senate retires over the constitutional statues, . The only way someone can become a Senator is they are appointed by the Prime Minister and their appointment is confirmed by the Senate.

The actual powers of the Senate as been limited in its history from being able to veto any bills passing through to now where it can only propose amendments to bills passed by the House of Commons and can delay the passage of a bill by up to one year, with the main power being lay in the various select committees where It can question government ministers, hold debates on current issues, and investigate specific topics.

New Development Foundation launches with support from the federation of Executive Directors and Trade Union Congress​

Ex-Prime Minister Quine alongside the Federation of Executive Directors Chairman and Trade Union Congress General Secretary have launched the New Development Foundation, a think tank dedicated to promoting innovative solutions to challenges facing the global.

The Foundation opening statement as follows;
"The mission of the New Development Foundation is to identify and analyse key development issues, develop innovative strategies, and advocate for effective policies and programs that can address these challenges. The foundation aims to leverage its collective expertise and networks to influence decision-makers in government, civil society, and the private sector to adopt evidence-based solutions to development challenges."

One of the key areas of focus for the foundation is promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. To achieve this, the foundation plans to conduct research on the drivers of economic growth, identify effective policy interventions, and engage with key stakeholders to promote the adoption of these policies.

Another area of focus for the foundation is promoting social development and poverty reduction. The foundation plans to conduct research on the root causes of poverty, identify effective social safety net programs, and advocate for policies that promote social inclusion and equal opportunities.

The New Development Foundation also plans to engage in capacity-building activities, such as training programs and workshops, to help build the skills and knowledge of decision-makers in areas of society.

Its primary goal short-term is move Prydain away from its fossil fuel dependent economy and creation of a green energy grid by 2035.

 

[Prydain]

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A outbreak of Norovirus at Oak Crest Medical Centre (Picture Above) has been linked to sewage problems

Half of Health & Social Care Board Directors warn of massive risk to patience safety due to sewages leakage ​

It has been reported that several hospitals across Prydain have been experiencing sewage leakage due to a lack of funding for maintenance. This alarming situation has put patients and healthcare workers at risk of exposure to harmful pathogens and diseases.

The lack of funding for maintenance has been identified as the main cause of the problem. Hospitals have struggled to keep up with the costs of maintaining their facilities, which has led to a backlog of repairs and upgrades. In many cases, hospitals have been forced to prioritize other areas of their operations, such as patient care, over maintenance and infrastructure.

This situation has prompted calls for urgent action to address the problem. Healthcare workers, patients, and community advocates have called on the Department of Public Health & Social Care to increase funding for hospital maintenance and repairs, particularly in low-income areas where the problem is most acute.

A spokesperson for four out of six health & social boards has said.

"It is unacceptable that we have top class healthcare professional reportedly falling ill during major operations due to serious sewages leakages, endangering themselves and patient care. It is due to the budgets for facility management being cut by 14% on average since Quine's fifteen year government expenditure plan. We urgently need uplift in healthcare spending before the end of this decade before issues mentioned become chronic."

Record number of AWOLs among those completing national service ​

The Commonwealth Defence Force has come under scrutiny for the poor moral and welfare services it offers, which are believed to be the leading cause of the increasing number of cases of AWOL among national service personnel.

The Junior Rating & Enlisted Men Association have said.

"It is widely acknowledged that the Commonwealth Defence Force is a demanding institution that requires discipline and hard work from its personnel. However, those who are serving their nation should not be subjected to inhumane living conditions. The lack of proper accommodation, including congested barracks, poor quality food and lack of recreational facilities have been identified as a significant factor contributing to the low morale of national service personnel. The ending of national services that cost the Department of Defence 600 million Manx Marks a year should be brought forward by end of this year not this decade, this will free up vast amounts of funding that can be put into upgrading welfare services."

The largest AWOL rate were among those doing their national service with the army followed by the navy, both the air force & coast guard have none existent AWOL rates thanks in part due to both being youngest branches of the Commonwealth Defence Force so have more modern living fatuities and lowest number of those completing their national service with them.

The Department of Defence have said that the planned date for ending national service for all men age eighteen hasn't been decided yet but will cut the time of national services from 21 months to 16 months by end of this year alongside carrying out a major review of welfare services provide across the Commonwealth Defence Force.

"We like to remind of those taking part in National Service that it is a legal requirement to fully complete their time but also provides huge opportunities to learn life long skills and make friends alongside serving the Commonwealth with pride like many generations before."

The Department of Defence told CBA.

Commonwealth Services Minister Donnan Coic announce referendum for Constitutional status of Erinia

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Nea Polis capital of Erinia and popular holiday destination​

Donnan Coic has told the House of Common during sessions yesterday that a referendum on the future of Ernina will be held July this year with a exact date to be confirmed after discussions with @Cyrene over the conditions of the vote.

It is believed the Prime Minister will request that the Lord Protector will use power of Sovereign Consent to allow the referendum to surpass the Tynwald thanks to the continued opposition from the Traditional Union.

 

[Prydain]

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Firefighters spend the night batting fires while having bottles and bricks thrown at them

Fighting between Manx Ultra Nationalists and Cyrenian Citizens Erupts in Nea Polis, after referendum announcement ​

Violent clashes between Manx ultra nationalists and Cyrenian citizens have erupted in Nea Polis, the capital of the Isle of Erinia. The situation has escalated rapidly, with reports of widespread looting and rioting in the city centre.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing groups of Manx ultra nationalists and Cyrenian citizens engaging in violent confrontations, hurling objects and insults at each other. Chaotic senses unfolded as rioters started looting shops and setting fire to buildings, leading to widespread panic among residents.

The situation became even more alarming when reports emerged that business owners in the affected areas had started arming themselves with rifles to protect their property. Some believed have fired warning shots at groups of looters roaming the streets, further escalating the violence and tension.

The police have responded with a massive deployment of officers and riot control measures, but the situation remains volatile and unpredictable. The government has appealed for calm and restraint, urging all citizens to refrain from violence and respect the rule of law.

The Prime Minister has expressed his deep concern over the situation and has vowed to take all necessary measures to restore order and protect the safety of the public. He has also called for an immediate end to the violence and urged all parties to engage in peaceful dialogue to resolve their differences.

An emergency meeting was held with the Cabinet and the Island's, Governor Lord Gough who was on video link, the Department of Defence has called up all those based in Erinia and military bases on the island are on high alert. It is understood Lord Gough requested soldiers from the 501st Division to be posted to Erinia during the meeting so far the Department of Defence seems unwilling to commit resources so passing the ball to the Ministry of Domestic Affairs.

Around sixty police officers from the Commonwealth Police Service have stayed on since end of last year to support the Commonwealth Overseas Constabulary

The situation in Nea Polis remains tense, and the government has advised residents to stay indoors and avoid any unnecessary travel.
@Cyrene