The Clarion, Havenshire's Party-approved Newspaper

[Havenshire]

THE CLARION
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A HARDER WINTER THAN EXPECTED;BASTION OF PROSPERITY OR CAGE OF AUSTERITY?


Controversy rocked the Central Congress today, as a speech given by the Finance Minister confirmed that growth in the third quarter was significantly lower than expected, and that it was likely that the country would be facing "a harder winter than anyone could have expected." This frank admission of failure has shocked many observers, though the Central Congress remains adamant that it can control the extent of the damage brought on by this mini-recession through what has been nicknamed "bastion economics."

"What we propose is not a full return to 40's isolationism or any sort of autarky." clarified Party Chairman Barry Knott. "Rather, we are carrying out long overdue policy restructuring that will see Havenshire become fully economically sufficient for itself. Any surplus will of course be made available for international trade, but the priority will always be security and prosperity by our own hand, in our own markets, from our own factories."

This bold new policy is seen by many as the logical culmination of the years of "quiet communism" practiced by the CCP since its election in 2001. However, others are more vocal in criticising it as undermining the foundations of the Economic and Political Freedoms won by the Market-Socialist Party, and fear a return to the one-party fiat rule that dominated from the 50s untill the end of the 70s.

"Make no mistake. Whilst they may use words like "council-communism" and claim the legacy of our national founder, Robert Clynes, it is Market Socialism which guarantees the most important right Clynes sought- the economic and political independence of the people. A True Council can only be forged by equals, not imposed." stated a spokesperson for the Market-Socialist Party, quoting party legend Emily Brown.

With the turmoil and unrest of the Westhaven Shop Occupations still ongoing, many fear that the increasing isolation of retail sector workers is a deliberate classist strategy to distract from mutual, universal austerity. Whatever the truth may be, it is clear that Havenshire must take radical and immediate steps if it is to avoid a longer-term economic downturn.


In other news, Sevet Activists of the Land's Right Movement recieved a flurry of supportive messages and tokens of good will from regular subscribers of the Clarion, eager to demonstrate international solidarity with worker's causes.

Other Headlines:
Sports: Hockey Semi-Finals set to see a showdown between Greathampton Mariners and the Westhaven Warriors.
Culture: Christmas or Winter Fest? religious greeting cards cause complaints in some districts
Security: Pepper Spray sales go up as fear of public violence increases.
Business: Corporation Tax to be controversially lowered to 60%
World: Havenshire continues to observe with interest the wars in the North and in Himyar.

 

[Havenshire]

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STRONGER TRADE LINKS SOUGHT WITH HOFFLAND AND EUROPALAND

Bowing to pressure from the Co-operatives, and admitting that the paralysis of the High Streets has caused more problems than it has solved, the Central Congress has resolved to build its new "bastion economics" policy with the "foundation stones of close allies and those of like spirit." This new direction of rhetoric indicates a suprising willingness by the previously stony-faced Financial Ministry to allow greater exchange of labour and goods between the Co-operatives and other instruments of commerce that exist in other nations, particularly Hoffland and Europaland.

Whilst strong trade links have long been courted with these two nations, being amongst the closest of socialist and left-wing nation-states to Havenshire, traditionally their own introversion and reluctance to become dependant on foreign trade has been mutually respected by our own. However, facing the increasingly difficult international realities, and finding it difficult to revert to a simpler, more industrial economy without customers, the Ministry has agreed to allow Co-ops to not only increase their export yields, but also to actively seek business and investment opportunities abroad.

This was seen as an acceptable compromise by the Market Socialist Party, who have threatened to use their ties within the Union Council to deadlock any "regressive" measures on the part of the Council-Communist Party. For their part, Chairman Barry Knott has reminded the MSP that "Democracy may be the right of all citizens, but it is the privilege of business." Rumours of division within the CCP continue to surface, however, though the next session of the People's Directive is not scheduled to meet untill January 6th, and CCP Party Councillors are discouraged from speaking out when the Directive is not in session.

With the Streets of Westhaven now cleared of protestors, and being readied for the Winter Festival parades, many now wonder wether it is not the economy that is shaky, but the political edifice upon which it rests. Only time will tell wether these tremors will continue to reverbertae, as the Wars in reactionary Europe churn themselves out to their ultimate, bloody conclusion.


Other Headlines:
Sports: Westhaven Warriors in the ultimate grudgematch against the Walkerton Wanderers this Sunday for a gripping hockey season finale! Don't miss it!
Culture: Carol Singers recieve record fine for causing public disturbances.
Security: Civil Commissioners confirm that staff will be retained for extra-shifts this winter,to assuage public concerns about order.
Business: It's never been a better time to be working in Export. Talk to your Union rep today and see if you can invest your Coop stock in international branches.
World: Engellex: The Hand that rocks the cradle, or the Wind that will bring Baby and cradle to fall?

 

[Europaland]

We welcome Havenshire's committment to increase the economic ties between our two countries. While it is not possible under existing laws for foreign companies to set up business inside our nation Europalandian cooperatives are free to invest abroad and may wish to do so inside Havenshire. There is also clear scope for increasing trade between our countries and we may wish to discuss a mutual lowering of tariffs between Europaland and Havenshire. Europaland too is keen to see new markets emerging for its products in the difficult economic times.

Finance Ministry of Europaland

 

[Havenshire]

We thank Europaland for its understanding and generosity. We are happy to welcome Europan co-operatives to invest in Havenshire, and are keen to encourage the strengthening of our markets. We are happy to discuss a mutually beneficial trade agreement, which would see Europan goods recieving preference over capitalist imports of similar value.

Finance Ministry of Havenshire

 

[Styria]

The RA would be very interested in creating an easier flow of trade, and even furthering our diplomatic relations with Havenshire. Shall we meet in Halle?

Der Finanzminister Hoffland,
Ludwig De Smet

 

[Havenshire]

I would be very happy to meet with you on behalf of the Central Congress and Finance Ministry, in the name of establishing stronger and easier trade ties.

Ambassador George Wallace,
People's Republic of Havenshire

 

[Havenshire]

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TRAGEDY OF THE NORTH IS OUR BURDEN TOO

With many stores standing half-empty this Winter Festival, and many children wondering if they will recieve anything fun this Christmas, an Emergency Session of the Business Council has been called. Although in theory the Ministry of Finance arbitrates all matters involving the Co-operatives, the Business Council was created in 1997 as a devolution of this power, and has not been formally repealed. Discontent with the seemingly arbitary measures being taken by the Council-Communist Party, Co-operatives are demanding a freer market, or face a truly frightening depression.

"We are at less than half a per cent growth economically." said Rachel Taggett, spokesperson for the Business Council. "The Ministry is trying to hoard these statistics, and hide the truth, but World Economic Recession has hit us much harder than they dare admit." With the Westhaven Shopworker's Union broken by Riot Police and possibly as many as 80,000 people unemployed by 2012, even public bodies within the sphere of Government are openly questioning how best to react to this fallout.

Whilst the Central Congress has managed to secure vital trade links with Hoffland and Europaland, it is the iniatitive of the Co-operatives themselves which has seen the most growth, and which is forecast to bring the most prosperity back to Havenshire. Entertainment Co-operative have managed to secure a lucrative shipment of 4-V games consoles from Touzen, and other Co-ops have begun seeking consumer and industrial contracts abroad, in defiance of "bastion economics" as proposed by the Council-Communist Party.

"We are suffering now, not because we were too dependant on an inconstant world, but because we were too timid to exploit all the opportunities offered by that world." continued Mrs.Tagett. "Only Enterprise embarked upon by the whole of the nation, and not just at the behest of the State, can ensure we weather the storm."

The Central Congress has refused to comment, stating that the opinions of private citizenry are not the business of the State.

With the RDTO moving steadily towards facilitating peace in Altai, and with Engellex and the EDF uneasily eyeing each other across the ruins of Montelimar, it seems only the Great Northern front remains active in this Second World War. Bantyr has paid an unimaginable price for its ambition, and Warre too seems on the precipice of total bankruptcy, though it seems likely that it will at least avoid total ruination through force of arms, and the rapacious invasion of Eireann. The enemies of the Gaeltacht also have paid a heavy price in blood and gold to repel them, with many financial analysts predicting a "Long Winter" for Suionia and the Northern Council. Rumours of a bailout by the EDF, or, incredibly, the RDTO, seem to be just that, as neither alliance has indicated any opinion about the crippling of its Northern rival.

"Let noone be fooled- we may be entering the eye of the storm, but the storm itself is not over. The RDTO, at least, is working tirelessly to ensure that socialist countries, together, can guarantee the safety of their proletariat, if not that of those who labour still for the monarchs and the demagogues." stated Paul Mason, official Emissary for the RDTO on behalf of the People's Republic of Havenshire.




Other Headlines:
Sports: Champion Wanderers celebrate christmas by recording a team song for fans.
Culture: Cinemas report record low takings for once-popular movie franchises.
Security: Jail Break at Maximum Security Prison was "successfully retrieved" state Commissioners, who refuse to name the attempted escapee.
Business: The North is broken but the West is wide-open- Is Touzen the new market of choice for Co-ops?
World: Aid Co-op desperately short of volunteers and funds this season as it struggles to help Bantyr

 

[Havenshire]

THE CLARION
now available online and in 40 languages!
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OPINION COLUMN
By Editor Erica Sandringham

YEAR IN REVIEW: 2011 AND THE FUTURE OF SOCIALISM

Havenshire has had a rocky year, which can be best characterised by the phrase "the calm before the storm." After several years of caretaker rule by the Council-Communist Party, the People's Republic appeared to have found more tranquil waters after the fiscal crises of the turn of the Millenium. However, the sudden implosion of the world's strongest economies in August into hiterto unprecedented levels of mechanised conflict has radically altered the global balance of power, in a way not seen since 1992 or even 1949.

Havenshire at first did not react to these violent altercations between capitalist and monarchist powers, long regarded as distant yet tragically implacable foes. Since the upheavals of the late 70s Havenshire has pursued a general policy of "accomodation" and "toleration" with a broadly capitalist world, a policy that, despite rhetoric to the contrary, was largely continued under the watch of Premier Michael Foot and his Council-Communist Party.

The "quiet communism" espoused by this regime, and which has subtly influenced and pervaded all political life in Havenshire since 2002, has largely failed to touch the slowly growing and prosperous "enterprise" class, who have drawn on the best traditions of co-operativist endeavour to produce increasingly strong business connections across the globe, including most lucratively with the Post-delegationist Superpower of Touzen.

Yet, curiously, the economic and political spheres of Havenshire have never been further apart. Even within the once omnipresent political bubble of Council-Communism, obvious signs of departmental jursidiction wars and an inconsistent application of state policy has hinted at deeper cracks beneath an otherwise perfect polished surface.

Whilst the foreign ministry stumbled inconsistently to deliver a political reaction to the Second Great War, the Central Congress found itself stumbling from shockwave after shockwave on the fiscal front. Attempts to present a united, inwards front against what it percieved as the "spreading taint" of Global Capitalism failed when the co-operatives independently determined that the key to survival was to maximise opportunities in the as-yet untouched Far East and Borean Continents , which have been steadily growing as the real economic engines of the world since the late 80s.

Next year, in June, the Premiership will once again be subject to a nationwide ballot. Elections are still a fairly new phenomena in Havenshire, and there remains confusion over wether people should vote for Party or Personality. What is clear, however, is that the fumbling, inconsistent and muddle-headed approach to governance that has characterised the CCP rule- a party which prides itself on its long legacy of stability, consistency and clear leadership- of the past few months is bound to weigh heavily on the minds of a populace that has tasted the fruits of prosperity.

Whatever the results of the 2012 elections, what is increasingly clear in Havenshire is that politics no longer has unambiguous control over economics. The failure of the Party to save the retail sector, and the obviously barely-restrained desire to "wind back the clock" to the 1970s has alienated and angered many newly independent co-operatives, who have bold visions for a first world Havenshire, with stronger ties and influence in a multi-polar world.

Whilst as yet the economic sector has shown no desire to challenge the two-party hegemony of Council-Communism and Market Socialism, and seems in fact to revile the unbridled opportunism and greed of the free market capitalist world to an even greater degree than the leadership, it is clear that the Party's dithering over economic issues has seen the rise of a populist, as-yet-unformed clique of broadly-similar individuals who wish to assert Havenite prominence in Foreign Affairs.

Even if Recession is averted in 2012, the issues that political factions will rise- or fall- on will be intrinsically tied to one question above all, which touches on everything, from RDTO millitary interventionism to the price of a 4v Games console:

Are we in, or out?

 

[Havenshire]

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DEFENCE REVIEW SPENDING PLAN LEAKED;SHIPS FOR CASH PLAN?

In a suprising development that has attracted fierce criticism from all sectors of the government, the yearly MoD review on spending has been partially leaked online, revealing a controversial measure to further privatise millitary development projects and to seek both more customers and more investors from abroad. This paper, whilst only a draft of the Review to be presented to the People's Directive on January 19th, has boldly asserted that defence spending is as much the purview of community enterprise as is it is the state's.

Controversial Minister of Defence, Angela Steele, was quick to comment on the leak, stating that it was "highly unprofessional" and an "obvious breach of security" that would be resolved with a private inquiry as swiftly as possible. However, on the contents speculated about in the leaked document, she has steadfastly refused to comment.

"The proposals put forth are the result of weeks if not months of careful deliberation by the entirety of Central Command, aswell as myself and all the highest advisors and consultants within the Ministry of Defence. I cannot comment on anything prior to its final presentation at the People's Directive in a few weeks." she said to our interviewers.

The speculated strategy has recieved most condemnation for its quasi-capitalist overtones, but, suprisingly, the Business Council and many Co-operatives were quick to speak favourably on the speculated proposal.

Citing the traditional strength and prosperity of the Shipbuilding sector, Magnatech Shipping, a subsidiary of the ArmsCoop, stated that "following in the footsteps of other comrade subsidiaries, we are considering most carefully contracts with friendly powers." This comes in spite of a Central Congress dictum that specifically limits how non-millitary businesses may operate internationally, and emphasises retrenchment and domestic growth above all else.

One thing is for certain- whilst opening up the notoriously closed-world of Havenshire's arms and shipbuilding industry may produce substantial growth from foreign sectors, and even help in overcoming fears of Recession, it will almost certainly also end the myth of millitary autarchy that Havenshire has worked so hard to cultivate over the last 50 years.


Other Headlines:
Sports: January warmup games on hold whilst older pitches are left to thaw.
Culture: Schools reopen nationwide in spite of difficult weather conditions.
Security: Copper Theft on the rise, causing delays in rail services. Civic Commissioners promise a full investigation.
Business: Fuel Prices hit a new high as more people invest in personal heaters.
World: Aid Co-op holds January Bake-offs to raise desperately needed funds for operations.

 

[Havenshire]

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NATIONAL MOBILISATION AS TENSIONS DECREASE

With a ceasefire agreement achieved between Warre and Suionia, and Talemantros and Altai having signed a conclusive peace agreement, you'd think that the Second Great War, which erupted with such violence in August, would be drawing to a close. However, allegations of increasing maritime terrorism and war crimes in Solaren have put the EDF and the RDTO on edge, and Premier Michael Foot has personally called for increased mobilisation, publicly agreeing with his Minister of Defence for the first time in over seven months.

"It is important that Havenshire stand by her allies. Soon the Offensive phase of the war in Solaren will also be over, but there are many pieces that will need to be picked up. Liberty is a Torch we intend to shine in all corners of the world." He added significantly.

This reversal of general policy rhetoric has brought murmurs amongst commentators, who were sure that the domestic advocation of bastion economics and a reluctance to allow private co-operative investment abroad would also be twinned with a retrenchment of anti-Vanguardist sentiments.

However, the opposite now seems true, as the Premier and the Council-Communist Party has thrown its weight behind the Minister of Defence. Whilst for the time being they have publically committed only to increased naval operations in the Long Sea, the calling up of National Reserves and the Mobilisation of the Crimson Marines and Walkerton Light Infantry suggests that Havenshire is preparing to use its ground forces abroad, aswell.

"This is a very dangerous time indeed to be mobilising. With peace now seeming to dawn across the world, many global powers may look askance now at Havenshire for mobilising. Certainly, Warre's own mobilisations have drown staunch criticism from regional powers who are opposed to the possibility of increased Warreic millitarism in the Implarian." said Dr. Reacher, a noted Professor of Oceanian Political Studies.

It seems likely, however, that this populist banging of the drum is in fact exceptionally well calculated. With economics now under firm control again, the Central Congress could very well be seeking to distract everyone from domestic issues by casting its net far abroad.


Other Headlines:
Sports: Rugby Season delayed by the mobilisations.
Culture: High hopes for the Havenshire entry in the Vesper Film Festival. "Even if we don't win, we have already won simply by reaching such a wide audience." Director says.
Security: Concerns that Reservist Batallions are fundamentally "untried" and will be unsuited for overseas operations.
Business: State Treasury buying up Carentanian bonds?
World: Warre draws ire from Toyou over colonial mobilisations; Suionia's War Crimes continue to be investigated

 

[Havenshire]

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PREMIER BLASTS CANTIGNY FOR PROPAGANDA PURCHASE

Following hot on the heels of a firey repudiation of international slander against his economic policy, the previously quiet and reticient Premier Michael Foot has begun to relish his new role in the international spotlight, delivering damning rejoinders against imperialist and hyperreactionary hypocrisy and propaganda.

"First the Imperialists of the Maya think they can criticise how we of Havenshire conduct our economic affairs." Began the Premier in Friday's public address. "Now, the Cantigny seek to drown the truth about their capitalist purchase of the people of the Implarian Islands with fresh lies of liberation and protection. A Cantigny Master is no better than a Suionian Slaver, and the gloss of the "friendly confines" cannot hide the rot that lies at the core. The islands of Nya Vastergotland and Nya Svealand and Dalarna have their own will, and cannot and should not be bullied by the Mormon Empire."

These hot words seem a shocking departure from the usual "hands-off" approach to foreign policy conducted by the Premier, and indeed by Premiers of Havenshire in general. Typically the Foreign Minister, as the appointed expert on foreign affairs, is meant to act as the "Voice of Havenshire." For the Premier to express his own opinion in this matter could potentially jeopardise the careful balance of power that exists at the heart of Havenshire government, but, even more crucially, bring the ire of other nations upon Havenshire.

"For the Premier to go on record in such a firey manner is shocking, even unthinkable, especially when the consequences of such irrational behaviour have so very recently been exposed with Europaland's own diplomatic faux pas." said one neutral commentator.

However, many have expressed their overwhelming support for the Premier's words, and where once he was barely known by the man in the street, his popularity has reached 48% for the first time in almost a year. It is clear that the Premier sees now the value of a populist approach in Havenshire politics, and, aware of the June elections, will perhaps try to run for a 3rd term in office. Although this is not technically illegal under the current Havenshire Constitution, it will be the first time since Premier Emily Brown that anyone has attempted to rule that long on a purely popular mandate.

Concerns about the implications of maintaining the general mobilisation whilst publicly venting ire at capitalist and imperialist superpowers have been raised, but unusually Minister of Defence Angela Steele was quick to stand by the Head of State, and categorically denied that any actions behind diplomatic reproach were intended at this time.

In other news, the Associated Press has been instructed to submit all future AP Westhaven articles to the Havenshire Union of Press Writers for formal approval before publication, or it will face severe fines for failure to comply with domestic practice laws. The Associated Press has at this time declined to comment about the ultimatum.

Other Headlines:
Sports: Inter-service Rugby games set to go ahead to maintain morale.
Culture: Popular 90's pop group Oasis set to reunite for a special "Support the Troops" Concert. "Bad Boy of Pop" Noel Gallagher confirms he'll sign a limited number of t-shirts for female Reservists.
Security: Is Zalonarus watching you? Debate over the much rumoured "EyeStar" network intruding on global privacy has seen a petition calling for greater security against foreign surveillance.
Business: Co-ops continue to seek investment abroad as unemployment soars.
World: Cackhiquel websites have been added to the blacklist for Havenshire ISPs.

 

[Havenshire]

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SUIONIAN SALE GOING AHEAD IN SPITE OF CRITICISMS

Although referendums on the transition have been held in the largest of the Implarian Suionian Colonies, there are no signs yet that the regime in Gotarike intends to respect the uncertain wishes of its populace and allow them more time to come to a decision on such a crucial change inpolitical structure and sovereignty. Worrryingly, it seems likely that Suionia's obsession with recieving dequate recompense from Cantigny- presumably to allow it to pay off its war debts- may be the only thing motivating Suionian government policy at this time, whose obvious lack of concern or interest in its colonies is a damning indictment for the rest of its Empire.

"If Suionia's greed is such that it will sell its Implarian empire, what is to prevent even more unscrupulous imperilists from making bids for the rest of it?" asked Premier Foot in the Central Congress today. "I am advising our Foreign Minister to make entreaties to their government, to inquire about what they intend to do about their other colonial territories and holdings, and wether full sovereignty might be granted to these states, and if not, why not."

This impromptu crusde against colonialism is by no means confined to Suionia, of course. The Foreign Ministry adamantly refused to recognise the existence of Zamosca, and Altai'sk business links which now exist in the puppet-state have been severed. A formal staatement decrying the treaty hs been relesed, though it is believed that t tis stage no formal action will be taken. Additionally, Altai'sk Christians have been added to the Asylum list, meaning that those wishing to fle this puppet state may now do so safely, and be sure of a hearty welcome in the People's Republic.

In other news, A grand tour of the RDTO is being conducted by Vangalan grandees, with the primary purpose of securing support for a treaty proposing greater millitary and intelligence co-ordintion between the two states. So fr Carentania has embraaced the treaty whole=heartedly, whislt the Tour is still ongoing in Jurzan. What Havenshire's reaction will be is currently unclear, though the Tour is expected to recieve full diplomatic honours, and a tour of important Havenite cities and sites of interest, particularly the Westhaven Museum to the Revolution, which is located in the former Palace of the now deposed Garlsnd dynasty.

Other Headlines:
Business: Tele Coop given the go-ahead to begin importing feminist pornography grom Europaland. Polls indicate that there is "great anticipation" amongst working men for foreign erotica.
Sport: Broadcast rights for the ongoing Millitary Rugby League have been secured, and fans of civillian tems have already begun to transfer their aattention to the impromptu reservist games.
Culture: Supreme Court judge upholds existing laws regarding Internet censorship, leading to the banning of over 40 popular internet sharing sites, with the notable exception of MyTube, which has agreed to filter its own content for Haveshire IPs.
World: Air Coop Passenger Plane crashes in Implarian Ocean enroute to Vangala. Rescue teams dispatched, though it is already feared too late.

 

[Thaumantica]

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___________________
E - FOREIGN OFFICE
FORWARDED FROM VESPER : : JANUARY 25, 2012
​

THE Covenant sends a message of peace and understanding to the Western World, and now the Peoples & Patriots of Havenshire, but reminds its current Government that what shortcomings in Empire or Prestige the eternal race of Havenshire failed to achieve in yesteryear cannot be redeemed today under the guise of emancipation. An all too familiar trend has returned to peaceful Oceania: that of continental or old world powers offering absolute solutions to purely Oceanian quandaries, with alien words, and in time - alien firearms. We, The Covenant, call for an Oceania with security guaranteed by Oceanians, and a democratic construct for Oceania and by the Oceanian Peoples & Patriots.

Furthermore, we officially reject the terms sale and purchase. The rights and freedoms of human beings cannot be bought or sold, and we as a nationstate fully recognize the democratic destinies of Suionian-Oceanians who, by a majority, have chosen Independence or Covenant in an Oceania of Oceanians.

Forward Cantigny!
Benjamin Stokes,
Chief Officer

 

[Havenshire]

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NAVAL GUNFIRE EXCERCISES ON DUGNESS ISLAND

In what could be seen as a highly provocative move, the People's Navy have begun a series of limited war-games around Dugness Isle, the small island that lies between Havenshire and Breotonia. For centuries a hotly contested island, Dugness Island has remained in Havenite hands since 1971, when a controversial treaty allowed the People's Republic to govern it directly, provided no millitary forces were garrisoned on the island.

Since then, the desolate northern spur of the Island has been popular for munitions testing of Air Force and Naval forces. However, this discontinued in 1991. Now, however, the People's Navy has begun a series of limited war-games on this island, arguing that since the Marine Landings being practiced are a temporary presence, they do not constitute a garrison. In addition to Beach Assaults, Naval Gunfire Observer Teams are also practicing co-ordinating off-shore barrages and airstrikes using new laser designators and position finders, honing the ability of the Crimson Marines to infiltrate and pin-point deadly lethal naval bombardments.

Criticism has also been drawn towards the improvisational use of logistical ships as Heavy Toop and Equipment Transports. For decades Havenshire has refused for political reasons to have dedicated Amphibious Assault Vessels. However, given the increasing emphasis on Marine operations, RIBs and Helicopters no longer seem adequate, and an order has been placed with ArmsCoop for 2 Amphibious Assault Transports, codenamed Galahad and Gawain.

"The People's Navy has, and will continue always, to rely on its Submarine flotilla for defence." Confirmed Fleet Admiral Graves. "However, the Surface Navy has increasingly recieved much needed attention over the past years, in order to meet our growing commitments overseas, both as part of the RDTO and to safeguard the trade of our many international Co-operatives, the safety of which was traditionally...understood to be a given." The Fleet Admiral has long been an outspoken critic of the Mantle, and has declined to comment on any aspects of Havenshire maritime defence concerning the Long Sea.

With a renewed emphasis on defence industries and manufactured goods exports, there is still some concern about how the Government intends to address the problem of unused Labour, which manifests most clearly in the recent deep recession in the retail sector.

To address this, the CCP has outlined in its 2012 Manifesto commitments to continue funding Night Schools for re-training, aswell as to subsidise public transport use for the Unemployed, to assist in finding work further afield. However, it is unclear how soon these reforms will be implemented, as the People's Directive is not scheduled to meet untill April now, and many fear that an increasing subculture of "benefit sponges" will take root, the longer the core problems of Unemployment remain unaddressed.


Other Headlines:
Sports: Rugby League begins as snow blankets the pitches at Walkerton.
Culture: War Dog a stunning sensation in Public Theatres.
Security: Debate over Household Fire-arms Law continues virulently online.
Business: How far is too far? Co-ops seek to extend networks of business into Himyar and the Green Sea Islands
World: Europaland continues to attract near-universal criticism for its radical stances

 

[Breotonia]

Foreign Office

His Majesty's Government is gravely concerned by the recent exercises being performed by the People's Navy on and in the vicinity of such a politically and militarily sensitive location as Dugness Isle. It is difficult to imagine this action as being anything other than unnecessarily provocative and potentially hostile in nature. Instead of following the regular course of escalation which has led the world to the state of instability it is presently in, we invite representatives of Havenshire to Lunden for a conference with the focus of bringing about a meaningful reduction in hostility between our nations and with the aim of decreasing the likelihood of armed conflict.

 

[Havenshire]

We accept the invitation, and look forward to an amenable dialogue between our two nations regarding this move by the Ministry of Defence. We assure you that any confusion or concern over the actions taken by the People's Navy will be promptly addressed.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Breotonian Office

 

[Havenshire]

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TENSIONS IN THE GREAT SEA MOUNT

Whilst talks between Breotonia and Havenshire over the use of Dugness Isle for naval war-games are ongoing, Europaland has added a flaming torch to the tensions of the Great Sea, and has provocatively mobilised its entire navy to effectively occupy international waters in the Northwestern quarter of the Great Sea, having withdrawn from its earlier holding line near the Sound off of Cambria.

"Whilst we can confirm that the Europan Navy has not at this time acted in an aggressive manner, nor attempted to interfere with any merchantile traffic, its conspicuous, millitarised presence nonetheless greatly threatens the balance of power in the Great Sea, and furthermore serves as a physical and psychological deterrent to marine merchant activity." stated a missive from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, clarifying the matter.

With Great Engellex issueing its predictably dire threats, Europaland has responded in its typical style, which has greatly inflamed tensions between the two nation-states. Europaland has long enjoyed a degree of warm feeling amongst citizens in Havenshire, but its latest foreign policy has left many aghast, who see this niave provocation as inviting a regional catastrophe by too directly engaging the Ultramonarchist and Capitalist Powers.

"War is what these autocrats and reactionaries live for. They tore their colleagues apart to feed their appetite for territory and wealth. Who knows what they will do against a niave challenger like Europaland?" said online commentator and blogjournalist, TheTruthisRed.

More sober and respectable commenters, however, have pointed to Europaland's general desire to be considered part of the RDTO and the broader socialist world. "If Europaland will ignore gentle reminders from Havenshire's emissaries, perhaps it will heed more readily the sterner warning from Rijeka. I am confident that the RDTO will not for a moment consider admitting Europaland into its defensive framework, especially if Europaland is simply going to use this framework to provoke tensions and invite a regional conflict." Arnold Riggs, the former delegate for the RDTO for Havenshire in the 1970s, spoke out from his retirement about the situation, whilst making clear that he did not speak for the Havenshire Government anymore. However, his caution and concern regarding Europaland was not a lonely sentiment.

Europaland's radical approach to socialist libertarianism has made many, more cautious and thoughtful council-communists wary, who have doubts about the ability of the young, multi-cultural state's ability to translate its own unique success into a more careful policy that can be adapted to the different conditions of the world at large. Although popular with many younger socialists, particularly women, Europaland's own uncertainty about joining the RDTO reflects a fundamental failure by its ruling Party to fully understand the needs of its proletariat, or to communicate its vision clearly to them.

Whatever the case may be, Havenshire has made its stance clear. It will defend its waters and its shores, but Europaland is increasingly finding itself bereft of official, political support for its internationalist ventures.

Other Headlines:
Sports: Women's Rugby League: Unpopularity a cultural failing or an unavoidable human truth?
Culture: Wiesan Pop star Nina's song 99 Red Balloons voted 11th in a Student top 100 songs poll online, to much national embarassment.
Business: Southwest Fisheries Co-op seeking Business in Nye Vastergotland, and offers are being extended to local governmental bodies, bypassing Suionian Federal/Imperial government.
World: Online survey finds that only 21% of Havenite expats wish to return to Havenshire, even if it had a Monarchy.

 

[Havenshire]

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RDTO CONFERENCE AT OLDCASTLE STRENGTHENS ALLIANCE

Whilst Kyivan Submarines enroach on the Great Sea and threaten to add a new undercurrent of tension to an already unstable situation, The long-awaited Vangalan delegation arrived in Havenshire to complete its grand tour of the RDTO, arriving at the same time as a crucial conference organised between Jurzan and Carentania, with the People's Republic of Havenshire mediating.

Located at the historic and idyllic location of Oldcastle Lake Retreat, the millenia-old castle was originally built by King Aldric of Lakeshire, and has in more recent times served as a Spa Resort and Getaway for private conferences and Co-operative teambuilding excercises. Although the grounds have been closed off for the conference, protestors have been permitted to gather in a space on a nearby Hill, although no significant criticism has been raised by any groups regarding this conference.

"The only protestors who have turned up have been ultranationalists and Rikerists, and even then there's only a handful." Confirmed one conference spokesperson. The Conference is expected to last for the rest of the week, and will attempt to settle hard differences which emerged between Jurzan and Carentania, aswell as strengthen the RDTO as a whole.

Meanwhile, Vangala's delegation is expected to be given a full Tour of Havenshire, stopping at a number of Factories, Agricultural Communities, and famous landmarks and places of outstanding natural beauty within the country. Schoolchildren at the prestigious George Anderson Academy for Leadership will also be allowed to meet the delegation, and present their recent projects on Vangalan culture and history.

Although rumors and propaganda from various nations have attempted to portray the RDTO as an alliance "under threat" or splitting from internal dissent, if anything the Alliance seems to only be growing stronger, with discussion still ongoing about Europaland's entry. Given the ongoing Great Sea Crisis, it may need the RDTO now more than ever.


Other Headlines:
Sports: Junior Rugby League begins its own tournament today, as icy weather eases up
Culture: Wiesan polka music suprisingly popular amongst niche subculture fans
Business: Small Media co-op is looking to publish its popular Crimson Torch Superhero comics to a wider international audience.
World:Jurzani President forced to step down

 

[Havenshire]

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MARKET SOCIALIST PARTY RELEASES ELECTION MANIFESTO

With the June Elections looming, the Market Socialist Party Leader, Edward Newman, has broken the customary silence of parties out of power to release the Election Manifesto to the Press, and has laid out plans to begin his election campaign in May.

"Our aims are simple. To restore the Freedom and power of the co-operatives, to diversify the markets still greater, to embrace trade with all nations who do so responsibly and empower the worker. We believe strongly, as we always have, that granting control of the tools of production is only the first step to empowering the proletariat. A blank canvas, an open market, these are both essential for a truly free expression of socialism." Stated Regional Councillor Newman, who currently holds the seat for Southborne, a city notorious for its "right-wing" sympathies, which in recent years has translated to a strong market socialist constituency. The 20-page Manifesto, released in pamphlets, online, and soon in abbreviated form in leaflets, outlines key policies relating to implementing a Market Socialist government over the next five years, and how the MSP would work within the Central Congress and the People's Directive to ensure that the nation as a whole benefited from their goals.

"I implore all right-thinking citizenry of Havenshire to take heed of how the Council-Communist Party has governed these last 10 years, and determine for themselves wether this is a course they truly wish to continue upon." Newman has a long history with the Market Socialist Party, joining in 1977 and working through the ranks from streetside agitator and leafleter to a member of its Policy Council to Community Councillor for Southborne-Redhall, to his current position as Regional Councillor for Southborne, winning the ballot for Party Leadership by 23 votes in 2006.
As a member of the Market-Socialist "old guard", Newman is seen as a strong choice and a steady hand, and one who has no truly radical ideas or sentiments, making him a good choice for negiotiating compromises in the Directive if the Party fails to win a Governing Majority.

Commenting on RC Newman's speech, Premier Michael Foot noted only that the contender would be "interesting to debate" in the upcoming May Campaign process, and that he reminded everyone voting that "Electing a Premier is a seperate process to electing a Party. Do not feel you have to choose between me and your favoured Councillors, should they be of a different allegiance. Nonetheless, a Body with a mis-matched Head is a poor Organism indeed, and one should take care to align these interests, wherever possible."

With the Premier currently engaged in important and ambitious foreign and alliance policy discussions, it is traditional for the Party Chairman to organise and comment on election campaign proceedings. However, Chairman Barry Knot has been silent on the issue, and may choose to wait untill May before launching a full campaign on behalf of the Premier and the Party. As has become common practice since 1985, the Premier's elections are held at the same time as the Party's Regional Elections, with County/Community Elections occurring six months afterwards. This can theoretically lead to a confusing period where local government is wildly out of synch with regional and federal government, but so far the system reformed in 1985 has not produced such a worst-case scenario.


Other Parties likely to be campaigning for Regional positions are the Vanguardist Party, who may also have a shot at the Premiership with leader James Reid. Other minority parties who may become more prominent in the December County/Community Elections, but who also will be running in the Regional Elections, are the Greens and the highly controversial Post-Delegationist League, which has announced via online media that it intends to begin a grass roots campaign soon, and is apparently looking for a candidate to run for the Premiership, which many consider more a symbolic gesture than any serious attempt at the position.



Other Headlines:
Sports: Kids arrested for holding impromptu Parkour events in urban areas
Culture: Censors confused by growing popularity of Lusitanian-inspired "Christian Communist" literature. A passing trend or here to stay?
Business: Central Films Co-op stirs controversy by marketing "classic" Havenshire movies, television programmes and cartoons to monarchist and capitalist countries. Positive reviews of Cohen films in Potenza cited as "critical success"
World: Great Sea tensions continue to ease as millitary forces are withdrawn

 

[Havenshire]

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COUNCIL-COMMUNIST PARTY RELEASES MANIFESTO

The CCP has now made its election manifesto fully available to the public, having apparently used the extra few weeks after the Market Socialists released theirs to assess the public mood, and tailot the wording of their election pledges.

For most people, the major concerns remain Employment, the Central Health Service and a lingering concern over the Shockwaves of Imperialism which plunged the world into a mini-recession, and still reveberate today. Most importantly, the CCP have recommitted themselves to the RDTO, and promised to make alliance politics and the defence of council-communist interests abroad a priority for their next government, if elected.

"Whilst the needs of Havenshire will always be our highest and first priority, it has become clear to me that we simply cannot neglect the stage of world affairs any longer. We came too close to economic disaster, because we thought that in this modern world we could remain isolated and self-sufficient. A Fortress that stands alone cannot endure, but a covered market weathers the storm." stated Premier Foot, explaining the Manifesto in typically evocative language.

Chairman Knott was quick to take the helm, however, reinforcing his own stance that "Unions are integral to Council-Communist politics" and allaying fears that there would be a repeat of the gutting of the Retail Worker's Union. "A Consumerist Sector will always be the most vulnerable and most dangerous sector of any robust economy, even a council-communist one. However, we recognise that many comrades, having been raised and educated along very specialist lines, will be struggling to adapt to different economic sectors. We will commit further resources to providing stronger, more diverse education for the next generation and plenty of opportunities for adults to seek re-education and new career paths, should they so wish it."

These promises have attracted a suprising amount of criticism in the street and online, however, with many vocal sections of the public expressing distrust and disdain for the CCP. "We've had 10 years of inconsistency, Vangalan Summer politics, and staid quango-pandering. Whilst the Premier seems to have a bold vision and a strong stance now, he talked just as fine a game 10 years ago, and yet here we are." said famed Blogosphere amateur Journalist, Guy Hayes, also known by his online handle, "The Somerby Gardener", or Gardener for short.

The importance of this emerging field of Social Media has been recognised by both Parties, and the Market Socialist Party has set up its own Twatter Feed, and is keen to appeal to young students and the unemployed in equal measure. RC Newman has refrained this week from commenting directly on the CCP Manifesto, mirroring his opponent's own polite reticience, but he has been ardent in his support for freelance commentors and the right of citizens to privately publish and post commentaries and analyses of the elections online, and has let slip a desire to privatise the Media, creating more jobs and breaking The Clarion's hold on official printed, radio and online media.

The Vanguardists and the Post-Delegationist Factions have also created websites and begun viral campaigns to drum up awareness, but lacking stronger figureheads it is unlikely that they will penetrate public awareness anytime soon.


Other Headlines:
Sports: Tennis Leagues start training for Spring Season as Cantigny prepares for its 2012 Global Open
Culture: "Stop Kyiv 2012" videos become a controversial viral phenomena, as many criticise its simplistic, Vanguardist call for millitary intervention against the fascist state.
Business: More Havenite Media co-ops to seek markets for classic Havenshire culture abroad?
World: Millions mourn the death of popular Suionian Politician in a Plane Crash