NationStates Jolt Archive

Somewhere in the hills of Île Grande, Outer Islands, Liverpool England

« Oui. Oui, demain. Uh-huh. Non, mais je--. Uh. D'accord. » Jacques Badonner hung up the mobile phone in frustration and turned to close associate Henry Matthew.

"The bastards."

Matthew looked up. "Hrm? What's up? Who was that?"

"Faction leaders. Our plan was to get started tomorrow, but they've asked us to hold back. Feds got wind of it. They know something's about to happen. Collins (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php?title=Simon_Collins) is coming up from Ad'ihan." Badonner kicked the wall, hurting himself in the process and letting loose a colourful string of words, leaving Matthew no chance to speak. When he finally finished cursing, Matthew spoke.

"Collins is coming up? There's no way what we're going to do can get Ad'ihan involved. Which is a problem for us, surely?"

Badonner ignored him, and switched back to French. « Les armes. » He looked around. « Où sont les armes? Sont-elles prêtes? » Matthew looked around the ramshackle shack too. Out in the hilly region of Grand Island it wasn't exactly easy for a house to go unnoticed, so a ramshackle shack was the best they could do to remain discreet. « Je ne sais pas. Pas avec vous? »

Badonner growled. "Dammit, what a time to lose the weapons." He left the shack and saw a rifle on the ground. "What the--?" He picked it up, looked at it, and yelled. Marked clearly on the rifle was the insignia of the Liverpool England Army. They had been, at least here, found out.

Two soldiers ran in from cover, rifles pointing at Badonner. "Hands up. Now. Anyone in the shack?" One of the men gestured towards the makeshift housing with his weapon. Badonner feigned a lack of understanding. « Je suis désolé, je ne parle pas anglais. Vous... vous parlez français? »

The other soldier looked at him. "We know you speak English. We've all your communications monitored. We know what you're doing. You're under military arrest." Satisfied that no-one else was around, the two men escorted Badonner into a waiting military police van, and drove off, leaving Matthew lying on the ground behind the shack motionless, trying to – and successfully – evading arrest.

It was going to be a long campaign...

(OOC - this is the start of an uprising on the chiefly French-speaking Île Grande, in the Outer Islands territory of Liverpool England. The ultimate goal of this as-yet-unnamed faction, obviously, is independence from the feds. They won't settle for anything else, but the faction has discussed possibly merging Grand Island into the Protectorate of Ad'ihan to become a sovereign state as an alternative way of getting independence.

As of now only the LE government and the faction know about what's happening. The Army will then parade the capture of Badonner before the press, letting the whole world know. At which point the conflict will likely become an all-out violent civil conflict between the guerrillas, with help from many outside forces. The faction is presumed at this time to already have outside backing, so feel free to enter the RP.

Next post will come in about 22-24 hours.)

Alan Sentor, Prime Minister of Bostopia, was sat in his private office within Suffern Palace, home of the House of Subjects and the as-yet unused House of Gentry, what was once the Upper House in the ancient Bostopian system, removed during the reign of the last Emperor Boston.

"Alan?" came the voice of Foreign Minister Daniel Henrik.

"Yes Daniel, what news have you for me?"

"Well Prime Minister, the Casaran situation is quiet since they stopped us getting a shot in at those reds, but situations have developed on Grand Island."

"Ah, Ile Grande, yes, Badonner was arrested. Matthew informed me. You have an update on the situation?"

"No PM. That was the news I had."

Sentor tutted and shook his head.

"You mean to tell me the Foreign Office, with the amount of funding the taxpayers provide, those who work hard for their money to further the glory of Bostopia against the fight against the reds - the Foreign Office cannot even update me on old news?

"We-" Henrik was cut off mid-sentence when a figure strolled into the room.

"Sorry guv'nah, jus' gotta check wot numbahs on ya desk, stock keeping and that."

Sentor checked under the desk, finding four letters scribed into the underside of the furniture.

"One thousand ninety three. However, do not ever walk into my office unannounced again, understand?"

"Oh, sorry guv', mistakes an' all that."

"Quite."

Sentor and Henrik watched the man walk out of the room.

"Door!" Sentor called, and the man reappeared, touching the peak of his cap with one hand and closing the door with the other.

"Now, you had an answer for me?"

"Well, sir, we, well, we haven't heard anything out of Matthew yet. The most we know is that the supplies the factions required have reached them -"

"So you did have news? You came to tell me that the supplies have reached the factions, and we can begin looking forward to the downfall of the federal Government in Liverpool England?"

"Yes, sir, absolutely right, sir."

"This time I'll forget the old news you had for me."

"Thank you Prime Minister. Have a good day Prime Minister."

Ad'ihan City Centre, Outer Islands, Liverpool England

The flash bulbs went off across the room as Badonner was brought before the press. Outer Islands Territorial Police chief Julien LaRue first addressed the mass of seated, eager press members in French. « Aujourd'hui, nous avons arrêté M. Jacques Badonner, 31 ans, pour des activités terroristes. M. Badonner a été arrêté à l'Île Grande à 11h30. »

Governor-in-chief Peter Olivier spoke. "Territorial Police arrested one 31-year-old Jacques Badonner, today, on Grand Island, for terrorist activities. Mr. Badonner was arrested by two Federal Army police officers on behalf of the Territorial Police at around half-past-eleven in the morning after a raid by Territorial Police, in conjunction with the Federal Army.

"We believe, from monitoring communications, that Mr. Badonner was planning to stage a violent pro-independence uprising. Four weapons were on Mr. Badonner when he was arrested, and all were confiscated and have been sent for weapons testing.

"There is a faction involved. Unfortunately for us and the Federal Government this is a very little-known group. However, we believe it to have strong grassroots links amongst people who strongly want independence, something the Federal Government has proven that the majority of Outer Islanders do not want.

"Their attempts to force the hand of the federal government by use of violence will not be tolerated and have resulted in this arrest. At this point we do not forsee any major incidents in the near future. The Governor of the International Protectorate, Commander Collins, is due to visit Modna Nord later tomorrow with a delegation of Outer Islands parliamentarians to discuss the issue of an independent Grand Island and what it would mean for Ad'ihan and Liverpool England.

"This, obviously, is not what we as a government want. We are pleased about today's successful raid, and more raids will soon be carried out to weed out these insurgents. We do not believe that this group has any foreign backing, as they are little-known to the extent that we ourselves are unsure of their name.

"No questions will be taken right now. Another press briefing will be held when new information is available."

————————————————————————————

SD: "This is Radio Ad'ihan International, broadcasting from the International Protectorate. I'm Sean Danes. It's 7 pm in Ad'ihan, 7 pm in Modna Nord, and 11 pm in CCL. Here's the latest top news from the newsdesk.

"Crisis? Outer Islands Territorial Police arrest a man they say was planning pro-independence terrorist attacks. Why is there suddenly an uprising wanting independence for the Outer Islands that has appeared from nowhere? What effect, if any, will this have on the federal government? Governor Simon Collins will join us later on the programme. An international relations boost for Ad'ihan as it receives its first foreign envoy, from the Ariddian Isles. We'll talk to Ad'ihan's ambassador in the Islands, Sarah Grainger. And the World Cup is now over - so what's been the benefit to Ad'ihan? All these stories, and more, after this news bulletin."

--------

SD: "Outer Islands Territorial Police today paraded a man Federal Army police officers arrested in a joint raid on Grand Island. Jacques Badonner, 31, of Modna Nord, was arrested on charges of planning terrorist activities. Badonner is believed to be a key member of a pro-independence movement on the Outer Islands. Davey Thomson reports on the consequences of the arrest, from Ad'ihan City Centre."

DT: "This arrest is not being seen as a major coup for the federal authorities. On the contrary, this is a major embarrassment. No-one actually believed there was such a strong anti-government feeling in the grassroots to the extent that there would be a violent insurgency. Added to the fact that Governor in Chief Peter Olivier basically admitted that the government was unprepared for this, it surely is really bad public relations for the government. Olivier told the press that the government does not know the name of this insurgency movement - but so does no one else.

"This will come as a shock to many mainland Liverpool Englanders, who will be steadfastly opposed to secession. However, many analysts believe that military action is not an option either - war would almost certainly cause a sharp drop in popular opinion of Prime Minister Michael Harley, whose current approval rating isn't exactly through the roof, at just 48%. The Federal Government can not afford a loss in opinion polls, and war would almost certainly cause a fall of government in CCL."

SD: "Joining us now to talk about this is Governor of the International Protectorate, Commander Simon Collins. Thanks for taking time out to speak with us, Governor."

Gov. SC: "Glad to be here."

SD: "Was today's development really that unexpected, Governor?"

SC: "There has always been some kind of sentiment of independence in the Outer Islands. However, many Outer Islanders are happy to take rule from the Federal Government. As we in Ad'ihan found out last year, when things get violent, the Federal Government caves in. This is probably why they've had to take pre-emptive steps this time round."

SD: "Governor, Prime Minister Harley's approval ratings will be sorely affected by any conflict."

SC: "There is little doubt that mainlanders see the Outer Islands - and indeed Ad'ihan - as a part of Liverpool England. Mr. Harley's approval ratings - currently in the mid 40s, I think -"

SD: "48 percent, sir."

SC: "Right, 48. They were at 73 percent last year, before the PPA (Ad'ihan People's Party) started its violent demonstrations that ultimately led to the creation of this self-governing state. The Prime Minister's ratings took a huge knock and fell to almost 45 percent, and has slowly only slightly improved. If there was to be military conflict I think there is little doubt that a very strong anti-war sentiment on the mainland - even with our huge military - would pull the government down."

SD: "Would the Federal Parliament even consider authorising war?"

SC: "It is very important to remember that we're not talking about a foreign country. This is Liverpool England territory we're talking about. There is an almost zero chance that any full-scale military action would be considered by Parliament unless absolutely necessary, by which point the situation might be out of control. The good thing is that there seems to be only one faction at this point. If competing rebel groups start popping up, we have issues."

SD: "Governor Collins, thanks very much."

"Henrik, it's Henry Matthew. Slight problem. Faction leaders are asking us to hold back and lay low after Badonner's arrest. Thought I -- uh. No, we're still int-- yes, yes. I thought I'd inform you of the latest. Yes, that's right, we still intend to push forward."

Matthew listened to the man on the other end. "No, I can't give you a time, the big guys haven't-- no, I mean yes, of course we follow orders from higher up. We haven't gotten the go-ahead to start attacking. What? You want us to go ahead anyway? I don't think that's s-- no, no, but--" A rather loud "No buts" was heard coming from the phone. "All right, fine. Have it your way then."

————————————————————————————————————————
http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b68/NSLE/NationStates/BSA5breakingnews.png
(OOC: picture on right is all rights reserved. It was found on Flickr and has been edited slightly.)

Paula Tonand: "Our federal correspondent, Kirsten Aso, joins us now live from Modna Nord with the latest on this breaking news story."

KA: "Paula, I'm standing here no more than just a kilometre away from these fires. Fires were spotted today blazing in Modna Nord and the Outer Islands Territorial Police are currently investigating the cause of the fires, but they have grown into huge fireballs. There are currently four fires raging across Grand Island, widely suspected to be the work of pro-independence factions within the Outer Islands.

"Today, the Governor of the International Protectorate, Simon Collins, accompanied by a tour of Outer Islands MPs, was due to meet people on the ground to hear their views on the possibility of an independent Outer Islands. We understand that this has now been postponed; Commander Collins is currently meeting the MPs in his office in the International Protectorate and not up here as originally planned. The Governor issued a short statement earlier."

SC: "Today's incidents are highly distressing for the people of Île Grande, who want peace. These fires, we believe, were started by pro-independence groups who wanted to detract from my visit to Modna Nord. Unfortunately, the fires grew larger and I have been forced to call off my visit which I was thoroughly looking forward to.

"The governments of Liverpool England, the Outer Islands, and Ad'ihan all condemn these groups of people who are stepping in the way of fact-finding about such a serious issue as this. However, this will not stop my visit, which will now go ahead as soon as the fire conditions allow."

PT: "Any word from Peter Olivier or the Outer Islands government so far, Kirsten?"

KA: "Governor(-in-chief of the Outer Islands Peter) Olivier did give a short press briefing earlier today on what he knew. In it, he criticised his own police officers for not, quote, 'treating an act of terrorism as one'. This is presumably referring to the fact that the Outer Islands Territorial Police force insist they are still investigating the cause of the fire.

"Olivier also said that his government would do what it could, but Olivier's hands are likely to be tied, with elections due in the next two months and the territorial parliament unlikely to be willing to let him commit territorial troops to any action against the rebels.

"There has, as yet, been no claim of responsibility for setting off the fires from anyone--"

(Firefighter approaches Aso and asks her to leave)

KA: "The fire is getting closer, unfortunately. There is no rain in the forecast, but there is no wind in the forecast either. Authorities tell us that they hope to put the fire out by tomorrow, but this just goes to show how unprepared authorities were for a sudden show of defiance like arson, Paula."

PT: "All right, Kirsten, you'd better get to a safer position, do keep us up to date. Kirsten Aso there reporting from just outside Modna Nord."

Music sounded through the radio as Jacques Badonner sat in his cell. A man dressed in uniform walked around the aisle outside cells, handing out food for dinner. A nice, warm meal, as always; Liverpool England jails are mandated by law to provide proper nutrition to all prisoners. Badonner looked at his plate, on it a green pea salad, some mashed potato, and rice.

Well, it's better than the food I'd have to eat if I were still out there, he thought. Suddenly, the tunes coming from the radio stopped, and were replaced by some kind of newsy theme. Badonner sat up as a voice filtered through. He turned the volume up.

"...at least fourteen people have been confirmed killed by wildfires raging on Île Grande. Outer Islands Territorial Police have classified the fire as arson, and now say that they will charge anyone suspected of setting off the fires with murder, a capital offence in the Outer Islands."

Badonner stopped eating. They weren't supposed to go yet. Something happened. Dammit, I wish I could be out there.

"...Territorial Police announced that they have identified a man they want to speak to regarding the fires, announced as one Henry Matthew, following a tip-off to Federal Army officers who arrested Jacques Badonner last week. However, they are stressing that this does not mean he is a suspect. Badonner is currently in jail awaiting trial for terrorist activity."

Badonner threw the radio against the wall, causing it to break. "Terrorist activity my fucking ass." The guard, hearing the commotion, ran over and opened the cell. Badonner got up and knocked him out, then decided to take his clothes off and change into the guard's clothes. Of course, he didn't count on the CCTV watching the aisle picking up the guard being knocked out. Just as he prepared to strip the guard of his belt, two more prison wardens came running up, guns drawn.

"Stop where you are. You move, we shoot." Badonner raised his hands and backed away...

——————————————————————————————————————

At the same time, somewhere in the hills of Île Grande...

Henry Matthew paced around. He had had a premonition that he was being watched when he started a small fire just south of Modna Nord. He decided to turn on his portable radio.

"This is Radio Ad'ihan International, at 1538 IET. Now, an update of our main story - at least fourteen people have been confirmed killed by wildfires raging on Île Grande. Outer Islands Territorial Police have classified the fire as arson, and now say that they will charge anyone suspected of setting off the fires with murder, a capital offence in the Outer Islands.

"This comes after Territorial Police announced that they have identified a man they want to speak to regarding the fires, announced as one Henry Matthew, following a tip-off to Federal Army officers who arrested Jacques Badonner last week. However, they are stressing that this does not mean he is a suspect."

Matthew stopped. A tip-off? Someone who knows me must've seen me. That's not good. He dialled a number in Bostopia. The phone on the other end rang and rang, leaving Matthew desperate and almost in tears. "Pick up, already, pick up, dammit!"

"Daniel Henrik speaking."

"They're after me. Someone ratted me out, I think. They want to speak to me. What do I do? Can you help in some way? Fly me out to Bostopia for a while?"

"I'll have to speak to people about that, Matthew. For now, you continue doing what you're doing."

Matthew almost yelled, then remembered he could not give his position away. "What, you want me to go out there and order the people to start taking hostages and killing people?!"

The one-word answer left him speechless. Finally regaining his composure, he said, rather calmly (to his own surprise), "You know that it's a capital offence, right? Are you willing to take the chance that I get caught and rat your government out?"

"This is ridiculous," Henrik thought, "no-one but national governments have direct lines to anyone here, especially the Foreign Minister." He tapped his fingers on the desk, looking at the maps of Liverpool England Ad'ihan, and the close-up of Grand Island.

He twigged. Henrik pushed himself out of his chair, and ran down the hall toward his carport.

"The PM's residence, now!"

Henrik jumped into the car, and in a few minutes, he'd been transported from the Foreign Office building to the home of the Prime Minister, Number 29 Senfeld Street.

"So, basically, PM, I think the Ad'ihani are behind the rebel movement."

"And that leaves us where?"

"Well, aside from possibly being strung along for the ride. I can't help but get the feeling someone's trying to provoke ourselves and Liverpool England into war in an attempt to have us back Ad'ihani or Grand Island independence military."

Sentor thought for a moment.

"That would be less than good."

"I agree."

"The military of Liverpool England, as you well know, is massive. And while we have four branches of the military now -"

"Four?"

Sentor nodded.

"Surely I should be aware of this, PM!"

"Daniel, let's just say the Emperor's Own Regiment is no longer a regiment."

The Foreign Minister shook his head.

"Anyway, while we do have four branches, we couldn't face down Liverpool England single-handedly if it ever got out that we got ourselves involved in this mess."

The PM held his head in his hands.

"Daniel, just make sure this doesn't get out, keep your 'contact' on Ile Grande happy, and his mouth shut."

"I'll do all I can, PM. But with Bostopian goods already over there, it's surely a matter of time until L.E. gets a whiff of who's involved."

"I'm perfectly aware of that."

The two men shook hands, and Henrik walked out of the room.

"This is a Radio One news flash.

"A state of emergency has been declared on Île Grande today after fires near Modna Nord threatened to get out of control and started inching closer to the city centre.

"The fires, which were originally not expected to threaten the heart of Modna Nord, have been fanned by windy weather, which forecasters say is set to last for at least the next day or two. Territorial Police say that the death toll from the fires has now increased to 31, while at least 60 more people are in hospital with breathing difficulties and smoke inhalation problems. Twelve are reported to be critical.

"The Territorial Fire and Civil Defence Administration has said that it does not expect to have the fires under control any time soon, sparking fears that more people could fall victim to the insurgency.

"In other developments, there have also been reports that at least seven people have gone missing from the city in the past 24 hours, sparking fears that pro-independence rebels have started kidnapping civilians. Territorial Police chief Julien LaRue has said that a team of officers are investigating the case, but he has declined to say more.

"All this is being watched closely both in Ad'ihan and in CCL. The Governor of Ad'ihan, Commander Simon Collins, has warned Chief Minister of Ad'ihan Alex Canning that if things get out of hand, he will consider asking CCL to declare direct rule on Ad'ihan. Mr. Canning has not yet commented publicly on this development, although it is thought that he will support a temporary period of direct rule if Ad'ihan is threatened.

"Prime Minister of Liverpool England Michael Harley has indicated that he is in deliberations on whether or not to declare Île Grande under a federal state of emergency. Mr. Harley also backed up Constable LaRue's earlier remarks that the people involved in setting the fires will be charged with murder."

"You stupid dog!" said the firefighter as the station's pet Dalmation looked innocently up at him. "I thought we toilet-trained the bugger. Why are we carting the bloody dog all the way to Liverpool England anyway?"

The rest of his team politely ignored him, as they usually did whenever Ben expressed his dislike of the creatively-named Spotty, and returned to their in-flight reading as the chartered Kelssek Pacific aircraft, with two hundred firefighters from all over Kelssek and two helicopters in the cargo hold, sped towards l'Aeroport international d'Ad'ihan.

It would be several hours before the smell became so overpowering that when they arrived, the sheer rush to get off the plane was mistaken for heroic exuberance to help the international friendship and yadda yadda yadda.

Île Grande insurgency: latest
Harley to face no-confidence vote, emergency declared in International Protectorate

Liverpool England Prime Minister Michael Harley is to face a vote of no-confidence in the Federal Parliament later this week over his handling of the insurgency on Île Grande, which has so far claimed at least 54 lives, with seven people missing and believed to be held by rebels.

Kelssek sent firefighters to help in the efforts to contain fires near and in Modna Nord set by insurgents, and the fires were finally put out after two weeks. However, Harley came under strong criticism for what many saw as an inadequate response to the situation, with opposition MPs and Outer Islands territorial MPs both calling on him to do more.

In another twist, Harley has issued an order of direct rule for the International Protectorate of Ad'ihan, effectively sacking Chief Minister Alex Canning (who still remains in his role, but has no more power). In a statement, he said that it was due to new threats posed to Ad'ihan by the pro-independence rebels that meant a state of emergency would be required. The Ad'ihan Senate goes into immediate recess for as long as direct rule lasts.

Some commentators have said this may be a last-ditch effort to save his job before the vote in Parliament this week, which he is expected to lose. If the government loses the vote, PM Harley will be forced to step down, and elections will be called immediately. Alternatively, analysts are suggesting that right before the vote is scheduled, PM Harley will announce his resignation and pass on the leadership of the National Centrist Board - and hence the role of Prime Minister - to someone else, widely tipped to be Foreign Minister Jeremy Firston.

Harley quits after no-confidence motion

In a surprise move, Prime Minister Michael Harley chose not to announce his resignation ahead of a Federal Parliament vote of no-confidence in this government, choosing instead to defend his handling of the pro-independence insurgency on Grand Island.

The opposition did not manage the two-thirds required margin to pass the no-confidence motion in the end, but the vote was clearly against Harley's government, and after the session he announced his resignation as Prime Minister on national TV.

"Ladies and gentlemen, citizens of this great nation. Today my government and I faced a vote of no-confidence in Parliament over my handling of the current situation on Île Grande. Unfortunately, the opposition chose to ignore the facts I laid out in front of them when defending our case. You, the people, have, in opinion polls, clearly given me a mandate to continue our current stance against the rebels.

"Parliament did not reach the required two-thirds majority to force a change in government. However, with over 60 percent of my fellow MPs voting against my government, I have offered my resignation as the head of the National Centrist Board to my party members, who accepted it. My Cabinet has similarly done so.

"Foreign Minister Jeremy Firston has taken over the leadership of the party, and becomes the new Prime Minister of Liverpool England and Chief of State of Ad'ihan, and I wish him the best."

Incoming Prime Minister Jeremy Firston has announced that he will not be appointing a Cabinet, instead calling for early elections, as he did not "want to lead without a mandate from the electorate." Firston also confirmed that direct rule in Ad'ihan would continue.

Elections set for April

Interim Prime Minister Jeremy Firston has announced that 14 April 2147 will be the date of Federal elections in the country. All territories and regions will go to the polls on the day to elect a new Federal Parliament, which will then elect the next Prime Minister of Liverpool England.

The various territories and regions (state/province level), which each send a further three to seven MPs (depending on region size) to represent themselves in the Federal Parliament, will also vote on new representatives. Campaigning for elections at territorial level for representatives will begin in four days on 2 February, while campaigning at national level will begin on 5 February.

Mr. Firston's National Centrist Board is expected to suffer heavy losses in the polls following former Prime Minister Michael Harley's resignation as leader, as Mr. Firston is not seen as being able to lead a whole nation, having only just taken over as Foreign Minister under a year ago.

The Greener Society Coalition is expected to make significant gains, as is the National Conservative Party, a former party in the NCB coalition that split away from the bloc after it was announced Mr. Harley would face no-confidence vote. Mr. Firston has announced that he will stand as leader of the remaining NCB bloc. Opposition parties in the National Leftist Federation, however, including the Communists who were outspoken on the Ariddian issue, look set to lose seats.

The new Federal Parliament will hold its first session on 20 April, with its key task being to approve a new Prime Minister. Until a new Prime Minister is elected, Mr. Firston will continue to serve as Interim Prime Minister. By law, if no new Prime Minister is agreed on within one month of the start of the session, the Mr. Firston will automatically become Prime Minister, even if in minority in the Parliament.

The new Prime Minister also automatically becomes the new Chief of State of Ad'ihan.

>Federal Parliament/voting
>343 seats
>299 elected directly, 44 representatives elected at territorial (state) level
>281 constituencies in 11 regions and territories. Most elect just one Federal MP, although nine bigger ones – mostly in the Western Territories – elect two. The vote for territory/region representatives is separate, and is conducted by territory and not by constituency.
>Territorial and regional assemblies are not affected by the Federal elections. Members of territorial assemblies standing for the Federal election must resign their seat. If they fail to make the Federal Parliament they will take up the empty seat, otherwise a by-election will be held to fill empty territorial assembly seats one week after the results are announced on 15 April.
>Requires 60% majority (206 MPs) to elect/approve a Prime Minister
>New Prime Minister will nominate MPs to Cabinet. Nominees require 35% approval (121 MPs in favour) to take up designated post
>Laws passed cover whole nation, overruling local territorial/regional laws where conflicting

The Key Players:

Parties
National Centrist Board (NCB) (ruling coalition)
• Leader: Jeremy Firston
• Made up of 4 parties (formerly 5)
• Centre, slightly left-leaning
• Key campaign: Fighting Île Grande insurgency
• Main weakness: Harley's resignation is seen as a sign that the party bloc is losing grip
• Current popularity*: 35%
• Election forecast: 2nd biggest bloc in Parliament

Federal Conservative Party (FCP)
• Leader: Patrick Danahue
• Formerly part of NCB
• Key campaign: Lowering taxes significantly from current levels
• Main weakness: First elections in over 80 years that FCP is contesting as an independent party not aligned to a coalition. Also, the FCP is not fielding candidates in every constituency
• Current popularity*: 46%
• Election forecast: 3rd biggest party/bloc in Parliament, might form governing coalition

Greener Society Coalition (GSC)
• Leader: Anita Kumara
• Made up of 4 parties
• No ideological politics, will normally vote the pro-environment way regardless
• Usually dormant in elections, having never been the 2nd-largest or largest bloc in Parliament.
• Key campaign: Less money to be spent on defence, more on environment
• Main weakness: With current situation on Île Grande, a campaign promise to lower money spent on the military might backfire.
• Current popularity*: 45%
• Election forecast: Just about becoming the largest bloc in Parliament, but unlikely to have the numbers to do anything significant. Might form governing coalition with FCP, giving the key PM post to the FCP.

National Leftist Federation (NLF)
• Leader: Alvin Cann
• Made up of 3 parties
• Currently the main opposition bloc
• Key campaign: Less spending on defence and more on welfare.
• Main weakness: Extremist elements within the federation which irked the electorate over West Ariddia
• Current popularity*: 37%
• Election forecast: Will lose seats in coming election. Whether they fall to 4th or 5th is the question.

Liverpool England Forward Movement (RFM)
• Leader: James Dolen
• Formerly the Rightist Forward Movement, but coalition name changed to avoid connotations to the far-right, although acronym RFM kept
• Made up of 4 parties
• Not usually a big threat in polls
• Key campaign: No promises, just change
• Main weakness: The lack of campaign promises, although the idea is intriguing enough that it might work in their favour
• Current popularity*: 28%
• Election forecast: Bottom-fodder, there to make up the numbers

*Popularity value is the current opinion poll approval rating

People
http://img528.imageshack.us/img528/4465/dorinchirtoacakv7.jpg
Jeremy Firston, 33
• NCB
• Second youngest-ever PM, only behind predecessor Michael Harley
• Experience: Foreign Minister prior to becoming interim PM
• Time in politics: 5 years
• Time as party/coalition leader: 2 weeks
• Current individual popularity: 48%

http://img267.imageshack.us/img267/6872/picture1qg7.png
Patrick Danahue, 49
• FCP
• Long-time leader of FCP, formerly a part of the NCB bloc
• Experience: One-time Education Minister under Harley's predecessor, Marc Newells
• Time in politics: 18 years
• Time as party leader: 14 years
• Current individual popularity: 52%

http://img265.imageshack.us/img265/3198/picture2cv3.png
Anita Kumara, 41
• GSC
• Youngest woman ever to lead a party or coalition
• Experience: No governmental experience
• Time in politics: 6 years
• Time as party leader: 16 months
• Time as coalition leader: 5 months
• Current individual popularity: 50%

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/7183/picture1pj4.png
Alvin Cann, 53
• NLF
• Known as someone with a bit of a temper, but a strong leader
• Not a hardline leftist but there are high-ranking elements that may influence him
• Experience: Shadow Prime Minister for the last six months of Newells' and the whole of Harley's administration
• Time in politics: 21 years
• Time as party leader: 14 years
• Time as coalition leader: 8 years
• Current individual popularity: 38%

http://img263.imageshack.us/img263/3237/picture2qk3.png
James Dolen, 38
• RFM
• Charismatic, but is sometime seen as too radical
• Experience: None in government
• Time in politics: 2 years
• Time as party/coalition leader: 7 months
• Current individual popularity: 28%

Cann promises better relations with West Ariddia

In campaigning for upcoming elections in Liverpool England, National Leftist Federation leader and current Shadow Prime Minister Alvin Cann promised that if the NLF is voted into power, he would try to restore good relations with West Ariddia, strained over the ruling NCB's support of the West Ariddian opposition FDP.

Speaking at a rally in an NLF stronghold in the Northeast Region, Mr. Cann said that it was time the Liverpool England government "stopped pursuing an agenda of distrust against governments with opposite political beliefs." The NLF is expected to lose seats this election and fall from its position as the main opposition party due to extremist views from within the NLF coalition on the very issue of West Ariddia. However, Mr. Cann made it clear that he was aiming for a gain in Parliament.

"There's no doubt we'll be hoping to take over. No party goes into an election aiming to lose seats. And when we do become the ruling bloc, I will strive to normalise our strained relations with Ms. Sho's government in Aqeyr." Mr. Cann's comments have been dismissed by the interim Prime Minister and leader of the NCB, Jeremy Firston. "We all know that if Alvin Cann were Prime Minister, his own government - or influential extreme communist elements thereof - would 'pursue an agenda of distrust' against extreme capitalist governments. The Liverpool England government under my predecessor [Michael Harley] and since has not, and will not, intentionally attempt to make enemies. It's political and governmental suicide." Firston also pointed out that the government maintained neutral, but "positive", relations with the Federation of the Ariddian Isles - which West Ariddia is scheduled to join.

The NCB is similarly expected to lose seats, and fall out of power for the first time in over 16 years. However, Firston was non-committal when asked about the elections. "We'll see how it goes, and we believe we'll be a part of the next government."

Progressive Communists ejected from National Leftist Federation

In a surprise move, the National Leftist Federation has voted to kick the Progressive Communist Party out of its three-member alliance. The unexpected announcement was made by leader Alvin Cann at its final pre-election campaign rally. Analysts say this may be an attempt by the NLF to win more votes, by getting rid of the most extreme elements of its group.

Indeed, early opinion polls show a surge forward for the NLF sans the PCP, who are expected to still contest the polls as an individual party. The NLF, previously expected to lose seats, is now forecast by some to win a clear majority in Parliament to govern for the next six years.

Cann also announced that the remaining two parties in the NLF would merge to form one party, with him remaining as leader of the new party. "For the upcoming elections we will retain the name of the National Leftist Federation. However, to more accurately reflect the aims of our new party, the name of the NLF will change effective immediately after the elections, when we will become the Social Democrats."

Lin Da-ren will lead the newly-individual PCP.

Latest opinion polls (±3 percentage points; "Won't vote" responses were disregarded.):

Who will you vote for?
PCP - 2%
RFM - 6%
FCP - 17%
NCB - 22%
GSC - 24%
NLF - 25%
Don't know - 4%

Would you want the NCB to remain in power?
I want them in power - 16%
I'd support them in power only if... - 18%
I would oppose them being in power outright but wouldn't
mind if they were in a coalition government - 20%
No, they have to be voted out of power - 31%
Don't know/Don't care - 15%

Violence erupts on eve of elections

Riot police were called into voting areas around Grand Island today after pro-independence violence erupted, just a day ahead of nationwide Federal elections. The trouble began around 5:40 pm at a polling booth being set up just outside Modna Nord, when a masked man set fire to the tent covering the booth. Four people were seriously wounded in that incident.

The violence quickly spread across the island in, according to Territorial Police Chief Julien LaRue, what appeared to be "a co-ordinated, pre-planned terrorist attack." Riot police were called in shortly after at around 6:15 pm to seven different locations. As of 9:15 pm, three people were confirmed dead in the eight flare-ups, with at least another 130 injured, 15 seriously.

The parties, all of which have now wrapped up campaigning for tomorrow's elections, have widely condemned the violence. Interim Prime Minister Jeremy Firston and his National Centrist Board, widely expected to lose power in tomorrow's vote, issued a statement saying the NCB were "disgusted and appalled at the selfish violence" that took place. Opposition leaders Alvin Cann (Social Democrats) and Anita Kumara (Greener Society Coalition) both released similar statements.

The Liverpool England Forward Movement, led by James Dolen, took a different approach, calling for the elections on Grand Island to be scrapped. However, this is likely to be ignored by the majority of parties, and may be yet another blow to the failing RFM.

Full election results

Final results
Total seats - 343
Social Democrats (NLF) - 57
Progressive Communist Party - 4
National Centrist Board - 89
Federal Conservative Party - 67
Greener Society Coalition - 121
Liverpool England Forward Movement - 5

Territorial/Regional vote breakdown
The 11 subentities of Liverpool England contribute 44 seats of the 343, elected at a state level (and not constituency level, like the other 299 seats). The votes were as follows:

Lox Land Island (1 seat) - GSC
Crna Gora LivEng (2 seats) - NCB
Outer Islands (2 seats) - GSC
Heartland Perimeter Defence Posts run by LE military (1 seat) - GSC
Western Territories (7 seats) - NCB
Southeast Region (5 seats) - FCP
Southern Desert Region (6 seats) - GSC
Northern Desert Region (6 seats) - GSC
Northeast Region (4 seats) - FCP
Government Territory (6 seats) - GSC
Gulp Mountain Peninsula (4 seats) - GSC

Election Day calm on Grand Island

Despite strong, founded fears that there would be widespread pro-independence violence across Grand Island on Federal Election Day, the situation remained calm throughout, with no police interference needed. All six parties hailed the smooth and successful process of voting in the Outer Islands.

However, the day was tempered with the news that two of the victims badly burnt in the first act of violence on election eve had died in hospital from their injuries. Interim Prime Minister Jeremy Firston has sent his personal condolences to the families of those affected.

With these results, the Greener Society Coalition has surged to the front as expected. However, no party has the required 206 seats to elect a Prime Minister outright. The new Federal Parliament sits in six days and its first task will be to appoint a new Prime Minister, which it has a month at most to do. If no new Prime Minister is appointed, Firston will remain Prime Minister in minority until the next elections or until he resigns (which, unless a replacement has been agreed, would trigger new elections).

PCP, RFM claim voter intimidation

In a shocking twist to yesterday's election, the Progressive Communist Party and their ideological opposites the Liverpool England Forward Movement have joined hands in a claim of voter intimidation. The two parties charge that potential PCP and RFM voters on the Outer Islands were warned not to take part in the voting or to face being attacked in an already-volatile region.

The two parties, which won a combined total of just nine seats in the 343-seat Federal Parliament, have warned that unless an investigation is carried out, they will consider any government formed under the current Parliament to be illegitimate. With the Greens failing to win a clear majority, and no coalition government having yet been agreed, this throws the whole process of forming one into question.

The Interim Prime Minister, Jeremy Firston, has promised a full investigation into the claims made by Lin Da-ren and James Dolen. However, with the new Parliament sitting in five days' time, it is highly unlikely that Firston will have the actual power to do anything. Lin further warned that this could lead to more violence, especially if the PCP and RFM supporters prevented from voting "take up arms against the pro-independence rebels".

Alvin Cann, whose Social Democrats (formerly NLF) won 57 seats, as well as Conservative leader Patrick Danahue, have both issued similar statements of concern over the issue.

This development leaves the entire country's politics in limbo, with the PCP and RFM refusing to recognise any government under the new Parliament, which would be the only government with any power to carry out such an investigation.

Firston has promised to push through emergency legislation when the outgoing Parliament sits for the final time tomorrow, extending the current Parliament's term "for the forseeable future". However, this could be blocked by the Social Democrats and Greens, who might see this as a play by Firston to extend his time in power.

Fresh polls ahead?

In the latest attempt by Interim Prime Minister Jeremy Firston to solve the current political impasse over claims made by the Progressive Communists as well as the Forward Movement, the last session of the outgoing Parliament held a vote on whether or not to extend the outgoing Parliament's mandate. All opposition parties voted against, so despite the NCB MPs all voting in favour, the motion failed.

The NCB, which once had enough seats to push through most legislation, suffered this time around from the withdrawal of the Conservatives from the coalition, taking 38 seats with them and dropping the NCB below the 60% mark.

With the incoming Parliament set to have its first session in four days' – sans the nine PCP and RFM MPs – Firston has suggested that new elections may have to be called, much to the displeasure of the Greens, which won the most seats in the just-completed elections.

"Fresh polls appear to be the best solution to the claims of intimidation. With stricter controls and riot police out in force on the day of voting there will be little opportunity for such things to happen, allowing everyone who wants to vote to do so," Firston told journalists shortly after the final session of Parliament with him as leader of the majority party ended.

Michael Harley, Firston's predecessor who stepped down after an embarrassing no-confidence vote in Parliament in which some members of his own coalition voted against his government, has warned that new elections might not be the solution. "It seems that an independent commission should be set up to investigate these claims. No government would be needed to appoint such a commission - each party could just select two people to the commission and that would solve the issue of the PCP and RFM not recognising the commission."

Kumara warns PCP and RFM may be isolated

Anita Kumara, the leader of the incoming largest bloc in Parliament, has warned the Progressive Communist Party and the Forward Movement that if they refuse to recognise the Parliament, their nine seats could be forfeited for the entire six-year term.

Speaking to Federal Politics Weekly, Kumara said it was impossible for anything else to be worked out. "We're in a situation in which the Progressive Communists and the Forward Movement may find themselves being isolated out of Parliament, with their nine seats lost," she said.

Kumara added that she would bring legislation to the table during the first session to split the nine PCP and RFM seats among the remaining four parties - a proposal that could easily gain support of all the parties, who will be willing to avoid the need of fresh elections as suggested by interim Prime Minister Jeremy Firston.

RFM leader James Dolen softened his rhetoric after hearing Kumara's comments, but insisted his coalition would continue to reject any government formed. "It seems absolutely stupid and a waste of resources to hold fresh elections over such a minor issue which could see us with only a few extra seats. However, as a matter of principle, the RFM will continue to not recognise any government formed under this current Parliament without a full investigation into the matter," a statement issued read.

The Social Democrats' leader, Alvin Cann, whose NLF coalition formerly included the PCP, was quick to welcome this possible solution, however. "We feel that the PCP and RFM have blown this all out of the water. This is out of proportion and if they continue as such they can not possibly be good, conducive participants in Parliament, and we would welcome any move by Ms. Kumara to forfeit the nine seats won by the two parties in question."

PCP withdraws from incoming Parliament

Following comments by the Greener Society Coalition leader Anita Kumara that the other four parties in Parliament may isolate the PCP and RFM over its claims of voter intimidation in the recently-concluded elections, Lin Da-ren's Progressive Communists have announced that it is withdrawing from the incoming Parliament and will refuse to recognise the whole body, taking the political crisis in the country to a new level.

Party spokesman Alhamed Khan told reporters outside PCP headquarters in Neverend that its four elected MPs would not be taking up their seats when the incoming Parliament sits for the first time tomorrow. "It is absolutely abhorrent that Ms. Kumara could threaten to illegally forfeit our four seats and redistribute them among her party and its allies. None of our four elected MPs will be joining the other parties tomorrow. This incoming Parliament is a farce, it has no right to pass any law, it has no right to govern this country."

Khan added that the PCP was looking at making international representations to other countries in the hope that "foreign intervention will cause the Parliament to break down", a comment that has attracted condemnation from all five other parties in Parliament, including the RFM, who are also claiming voter intimidation.

RFM leader James Dolen called Khan's remarks "insensitive and unnecessary", while the PCP's former allies the Social Democrats also roundly slammed Khan's statement. Dolen added that for now, the five RFM MPs who were elected would take their seats. "We do intend for our MPs to take their seats tomorrow when Parliament convenes, but will continue to oppose any government formed within the Parliament."

Michael Harley, the former Prime Minister who has suggested forming an independent commission to investigate the claims, has reportedly volunteered to lead any such commission. However, the party he formerly led, the NCB, were quick to dismiss any such suggestions.

Lin "asks Ariddia for help"

Lin Da-ren, the Party Chairman of the Progressive Communist Party, has approached Ariddian sympathisers for support in the ongoing political crisis, according to party spokesman Alhamed Khan.

Khan, whose earlier comments on the situation have been widely criticised, told reporters that Lin had spoken by phone to sympathisers within the Ariddian Isles and West Ariddia, as well as close friends who hold more important roles within their parties in the Ariddian Isles.

Analysts have widely dismissed the significance of this claim, pointing out that Ariddia would be unlikely to be willing to interfere in the politics of a country it has limited relations with. However, some cynics say that the former West Ariddian DCP - now the Communist Party - headed by President Banita Sho - might be willing to get stuck in, due to frosty relations built up when Michael Harley was Prime Minister in Liverpool England.

Current Prime Minister Jeremy Firston has written to his Ariddian Isles counterparts, calling on them to ensure Lin's "utter madness" went unheeded. There has yet been no comment from any of the three governments in the Ariddian Isles.

Ariddian responds to Chairman Lin's call

Turei Lauru's government has responded publicly to a call by Lin Da-ren, Party Chairman of the Progressive Communist Party in Liverpool England, for Ariddia to support his position in the Liverpool England crisis.

Mr. Lauru, the PDSRA's Second Secretary (head of government), said that the crisis was "extremely complex", and that "taking sides at this stage would, I think, be counter-productive". Mr. Lauru said that his country would be "more than willing" to do anything it could "in the sense of encouraging and facilitating negotiation as a neutral mediator", if all factions agree to Ariddian involvment.

He added that, as the PDSRA is no longer a sovereign country, his government would have to consult with its North-West Ariddian counterpart, before the federal Secretary for External Affairs, Sébastien Chaussée, could express the Federation's official position.

"In the meantime, the offer is there hypothetically for the factions in the crisis to consider," he said.

http://www.natlenq.co.len/news/breaking-21470420.html
National Enquirer

BREAKING NEWS
132 dead in Île Grande hotel bombing, hundreds missing
By Patrick Oldcastle
National Enquirer, in Modna Nord

At least 132 people have been confirmed dead in a devastating bomb attack in a western district of Modna Nord at L'Hôtel Oriental, in the latest of a series of pro-independence terrorist activities on Île Grande. Hundreds more are missing, and at least 628 people have been treated for shrapnel and burn wounds.

This latest bout of violence comes amid an ongoing federal political crisis in which two of the six parties in Parliament claim that potential voters for their parties on Île Grande were threatened not to vote in recent elections.

Local hospital sources say that they have received a total of 140 bodies, although the official death toll stands at 132. Territorial Police chief Julien LaRue told reporters that he expected the final toll to "be much, much higher, possibly in four digits." Federal Police have been called in to investigate, LaRue said.

There were scenes of mayhem and chaos in the immediate aftermath of the blast, which occurred in the main reception lounge of the hotel. "There was enough TNT in the bomb to sink a ship," according to a Territorial Police bomb expert. "It seems unlikely that anyone on the first few floors immediately above the reception area would have survived."

The bomb also destroyed cars outside the hotel waiting at a traffic light. At least 60 pedestrians and passengers are reported to be among the dead.

In CCL, security has been tightened around Parliament House where the new Federal Parliament, which holds its first session today, is currently sitting. Interim Prime Minister Jeremy Firston issued a strong condemnation of the attack and expressed his deepest condolences to the victims' families.

The Progressive Communists, which is refusing to take its four seats, called the attack "proof of this government's shocking inability and uselessness in dealing with anything of importance, let alone extreme elements of society."

Ad'ihan Emergency lifted

The federal state of emergency in the International Protectorate of Ad'ihan has been lifted by Interim Chief of State Jeremy Firston. The move was prompted by the first vote taken in the new Federal Parliament, a non-binding resolution calling for the relaxation of the state of emergency in Ad'ihan that passed by 181 votes with 260 in favour.

However, Firston, who opposed the bill, managed to secure the inclusion of a clause mandating the presence of Federal Police all along the protectorate's borders with Ad'ihan City. The bill was passed on the same day that a devastating bomb attack took place in an upscale hotel in Modna Nord, killing over 300 people and injuring another 700. At least 250 people are still missing among the rubble following the bomb attack, reported to be a suicide bombing, which would make it the first suicide bombing ever on Liverpool England soil.

In the official declaration by Firston lifting the emergency, he noted the severity of the attack. "This is an important and trying time in Liverpool England and especially the Outer Islands. While the Emergency is being lifted in the International Protectorate, we must all continue to be vigilant.

"The possibility of another serious attack, either on Liverpool England or International Protectorate soil, remains high. With the lifting of this Emergency, Federal Police are mandated to maintain a presence at the Liverpool England–International Protectorate border at all times."

With this development, Ad'ihan Governor Cmdr. Simon Collins and Chief Minister Alex Canning will resume their normal duties effective immediately. Cmdr. Collins has already written to the Ariddian Isles ambassador, James Doyle, who was asked to leave the protectorate earlier in the year and is currently back in Rêvane, to indicate that it is safe for him to return.

The Ad'ihan Senate will sit for the first time post-Emergency in a weeks' time.

Rebel group claims responsibility for attack

An unknown rebel group has claimed responsibility for the attack yesterday in Modna Nord which killed at least 512 people and left 700 others injured.

The group, calling themselves the Grand Island Independence Front, mailed a video with the claim to all major news outlets in the country. In the video, two men are shown wearing bomb vests and reading a final letter, in which they blame the Federal Government's "refusal to recognise an independent Outer Islands" for the attack.

Following yesterday's attacks, the Outer Islands governor, Peter Olivier, has been evacuated to Modna Sud on Barrier Island for safety. Barrier Island has, despite its proximity to Grand Island, not been affected by any violence at all.

The video also included a claim of responsibility for pre-election attacks on Île Grande, which killed a total of 57 people. Additionally, vague references are made to hostages - seven people remain missing from Modna Nord, having last been seen in January.

At least 130 people remain unaccounted for in the hotel blast. The video's claim of two suicide bombers "did not come as a surprise to us," according to a spokesman for Federal Police. "It seemed impossible that one single person could have carried that much explosives on himself without being noticed. We're not surprised about the possibility that there was more than one perpetrator involved. At this time we have no comment to make about the video until we analyse it further."

In a typewritten message attached to the video, the group warns of further kidnappings and attacks. Territorial Police say they have followed up on a pre-election arrest warrant for Henry Matthew, who they wanted to speak to about fires set intentionally in Modna Nord.

"The arrest warrant issued on January 12, 2147, for Henry Matthew on suspicion of arson, has been extended to include charges of terrorism, attempted murder, kidnapping, and murder. Territorial Police believe Matthew is the current head honcho of the Grand Island Independence Front, following the arrest in January of Jacques Badonner.

"Territorial Police have also completed an investigation, and following tip-offs, have uncovered links to the Bostopian government from this group. We will be handing the casefile over to the Federal Police and Foreign Ministry to continue investigations."

The Foreign Ministry confirmed that it was investigating the findings by Territorial Police, but stressed that it was important not to jump to conclusions, especially with foreign governments which had neutral relations.

"Bomb vests?" Sentor raged. "I told them myself, no bomb vests!"

The others in the room looked about awkwardly.

"It's not like the damn country's Communist! Why bother going for that much destruction if that outdated oppressive sadistic system isn't at the heart of the bloody destruction!"

Sentor sat down.

"Still, at least those bloody Liverpool Englanders will get a good kick in the groin. What's our next move?" He asked.

The Foreign Secretary sparked up.

"Well sir, should we find ourselves in a military conflict, while we could easily topple them in terms of armour, we'd be outnumbered."

"Ah! You're suggesting we make good our alliance?"

"And test the resolve of the Casarans at the same time."

Granforth, the Foreign Minister, turned to the minute-taker and Secretary of the Cabinet's meetings.

"Florence, change my last sentence to read 'Yes Prime Minister, the Casarans will no doubt be only too happy to help where there are oppressed peoples who need aid.'"

Florence nodded, and duly amended the minutes.

"And as usual, make sure these minutes are distributed to both of our allies in the quickest possible fashion."

Winter read the memo, one eyebrow slowly rising the entire time. "Aaah, the Bostopians. 'Help opressed people,' Sentor says. Elly, what's the first rule about the Bostopians?"

"Keep them in front of you and make sure they're not hiding a wrench anywhere." the Governor-General said in return.

"Right. Release a statement." She said, looking at an aide, who quickly began typing on a laptop computer.

"The Government of Casari is concerned about the current situation on Liverpool England's Grand Island, and hope all sides sit down and form a peaceful conclusion. However, we also hope that the government of Liverpool England will complete a full investigation before accusing a foreign, sovereign nation of promoting violence in another's borders. Such a claim is rather serious, and must be expected to hold up to all international scrutiny." Winter dictated, nodding to the aide to stop writing.

"So, what do we do when they start asking for more and more crap?"

"We try and undercut their price, what else?"

Parliament agrees on government

In a surprise move, the third-largest party in Parliament, the Conservatives have announced that they have "constructed an in-principle agreement" with their former coalition partners the National Centrist Board, as well as the opposition Social Democrats, to form a new government.

The three parties combined hold 213 of 399 seats – with 206 MPs needed to approve a Prime Minister, this coalition forces out the Greener Society Coalition, despite it being the single entity with the largest share of the seats (121).

The Federal Conservative leader, Patrick Danahue, is expected to take over from NCB leader Jeremy Firston as the next Liverpool England Prime Minister, bringing a Conservative Prime Minister into power for the first time ever.

Mr. Firston confirmed the developments to the National Enquirer, adding that the government had a lot on its hands and he was happy to make way for a new Prime Minister if it would get things done more quickly.

However, this development does not solve the issue surrounding the Progressive Communists and the Forward Movement. Both parties - which hold 9 seats in Parliament, although the PCP is boycotting its 4 seats - have insisted that they will not recognise the new government, continuing to insist that voter intimidation in the volatile Outer Islands prevented them from gaining a stronger say in Parliament.

Mr. Danahue's FCP issued a short statement urging the PCP and RFM to acknowledge the government "so we can jointly work together in resolving this issue". The statement also hit out at the Casaran government for recent comments made. "The Federal Conservative Party and Liverpool England government would like to remind our Casaran counterparts that what goes on within an internal police investigation in a territory or region of Liverpool England is, unlike a Federal investigation, not open for comment from other governments."

"What kind of response is that? 'Not open for comment from other governments.' What the hell are they going to do, throw a fit?" Winter said.

"They're rather good at throwing fits. In fact, I think someone made a video of their greatest fits. It's somewhere in the storeroom." Governor-General Neumar said, scratching behind an ear.

"We need to craft a smart but witty reply to this."

"What, 'We'll comment on whatever the bloody hell we please' isn't smart or witty?"

Winter looked at her Governor-General with a bit of a raised eyebrow. "Here we go, this'll be good." she said, pressing the call button for the secretary.

"Yes, Premier?"

"I need you to take a statement, please."

"Go ahead."

"While we respect the position of the Government of Liverpool England, we would like to remind them that employing basic security around an ongoing investigation is a rather common measure to stop leaks to the media, and considering the sensitive and urgent nature of the emergency, would urge them to do so. In this situation, however, we consider any statements made concerning the case in or to the media to be open for any comments any party cares to make. Also, per government policy, we remind the government of Liverpool England that any complaints about the actions of the Casaran government should be submitted privately and in writing either to your local Ambassador or Consul, or submitted directly through electronic or other channels, as opposed to open and random charges made in the media."

"Is that all?"

"Hmmm... Casari 2, Bedistan 0."

Neumar sighed. "I'm not sure that's the best thing to add-"

"Okay, scratch the score, that's all."

"Yes, Premier." The secretary replied.

Releasing the telecom button, Winter looked at Neumar and sighed. "You know, you spoil all the fun I try to have around here."

"It's because your style of fun involves getting the nation threatened with Nuclear Weapons."

"They wouldn't follow through with it."

"You better hope so." Neumar muttered.

Danahue becomes first Conservative PM

Federal Conservative Party leader Patrick Danahue was approved as the next Prime Minister in Parliament today by a vote of 213–126, becoming the first Tory leader of the country.

This comes after his party struck a surprise deal with the National Centrist Board and the Social Democrats to form a coalition government, in which all three parties will get a proportionate share of Cabinet positions. Outgoing Prime Minister Jeremy Firston, who served for just over three months, will become the Foreign Minister, returning to the role he held prior to replacing Michael Harley at the top.

The vote saw the Greener Society Coalition - the largest bloc in Parliament, having won 121 seats - be sidelined. All 121 GSC MPs opposed the new government, as did the five Forward Movement MPs, who opposed on the grounds that they would not approve any government under the current Parliament, in a continuation of the political crisis over claims of voter intimidation. The four Progressive Communist MPs, who are boycotting Parliament over the same issue, were recorded to have abstained.

Danahue was quick to thank his party's supporters after being confirmed as PM. "I'm very happy to be given this opportunity. Being the first Conservative Prime Minister of our nation is a very important distinction, and I will do the job to my fullest." He also paid tribute to his coalition partners, the NCB and SDP. "The NCB and SDP have helped immensely by agreeing to form this government so we can move forward in tackling pressing issues that face us, including the Île Grande crisis."

Danahue and his Cabinet, having all passed Parliamentary confirmations, will take up their posts effective immediately. Danahue, who also becomes the Chief of State of Ad'ihan, has indicated that he will not remove Cmdr. Simon Collins from his position as governor of the protectorate.

Cann warns Danahue of 'uneasy' ride

The Social Democrat leader, Alvin Cann, has warned Prime Minister Patrick Danahue that despite having been easily approved by Parliament, he does not have a free pass to push through legislation.

"The Honorable Prime Minister has a tough task ahead of him. We and the National Centrist Board will not make this an easy ride for the Prime Minister and the Conservatives; they will not have the free pass they want to pass new laws as and when they wish," Mr Cann told the Global Free Press network.

"We may be in a governing coalition but we will hold back our votes when we feel things aren't in the country's interests, or our own."

http://www.btinternet.com/~david.boston/_bostopia/dailymailheader.png

Danahue "gives hope" to Bosto-LE relations

Prime Minister Alan Sentor has today praised Liverpool England's new Prime Minister Patrick Danahue, suggesting his party background would help the countries get on. Sentor said that "while no two Heads of State will ever see eye to eye perfectly, Mr. Danahue's political background does give us some ground to start on. I wish him the best of luck."

Sentor had previously stated that Danahue should not worry about "tempetuous reds" and "other assorted liberals" threatening him with not backing legislation.

Court rules death for Badonner

A court in the Outer Islands has found former Grand Island Independence Front leader Jacques Badonner, arrested in January, guilty of various offences including terrorism and attempted murder.

The Grand Island High Court ruled that Badonner, 31, had "meticulously planned for, ordered and carried out attacks and transgressions" as leader of the GIIF. Judge Michael Roberts said Badonner was a "scheming terrorist capable of inflicting serious damage" and called him a "public nuisance and a public threat."

The prosecution, led by Alan Barker, called on Judge Roberts to impose "as harsh a penalty his (Badonner's) offences deem fit. We are seeking capital punishment." Badonner's defence lawyer, Dennis Thompson, had argued that there was not enough proof that Badonner was the leader of the GIIF, and so could not be held accountable as "the person giving the orders, when he wasn't."

However, Judge Roberts dismissed the defence argument. As is the case with all terrorism-related cases in the country, the judge was not aided by a jury, and pronounced his verdict around 6:40 pm local time (9:40 pm mainland time).

"This court finds the defendant, Jacques Badonner, of Modna Nord, guilty of the charges of terrorism, leading a terrorist group, attempted murder, attempted kidnapping, conspiracy to murder, and possession of heavy weaponry. The court finds the defendant not guilty of no charges, and I hereby sentence the defendant, Jacques Badonner, to death by lethal injection, in accordance with Outer Islands law."

The case will automatically be appealed under Outer Islands law, which orders an immediate appeal for all death penalty sentences. The Outer Islands Supreme Court will hear the appeal. Should the appeal fail, as it is expected to, Badonner has two other options; a pardon from Governor Peter Olivier or one final appeal to the Federal Supreme Court.

Defence lawyer Thompson has indicated that Badonner would likely appeal to the Federal Supreme Court at the same time as his appeal goes to the Outer Islands Supreme Court.

Harley appointed Special Investigative Commission chair

Ex prime minister Michael Harley is to lead a commission investigating claims of voter intimidation in recent Federal elections, the National Enquirer has learned.

Current PM Patrick Danahue is set to make the announcement tomorrow morning at his first-ever weekly press briefing at 15 Imperial Street. However, insiders at the PM's office confirmed to this newspaper's website that Mr Danahue would set up a commission.

The move will be the first step in a long process towards solving the current political crisis in the country, with one party refusing to recognise Parliament and another rejecting the legality of the current government. It is expected that each party will name two members to the commission.

The Harley Commission, as it will be known, is tasked with finding out whether or not the claims of voter intimidation in the Outer Islands is true or not, and if so, how best to solve the current impasse in the country.

With violence in the Outer Islands at a high, it will be difficult for the Commission to gather information and interview people. While the Commission does not require Parliamentary approval, it reports to Parliament.

According to commentators, this means that the Progressive Communists, who refuse to acknowledge the current make-up of the body over the very issue of voter fraud, will have no choice but to grudgingly accept this as a way forward to solve the issue.

Mr Danahue is expected to provide more details at his press briefing tomorrow.

(Date - April 26, 2147, LE time)
Outer Islands Parliament passes motion calling for state elections

Ahead of a key briefing later today by Federal Prime Minister Patrick Danahue on the issue of suspected vote fraud in federal elections held two weeks ago, the Outer Islands territorial Parliament has passed a motion of no-confidence in Governor Peter Olivier's state government, forcing territorial elections.

The Progressive Communist Party and the Forward Movement, the two parties involved in the federal electoral crisis, have both issued statements saying that such elections could not possibly go ahead until the federal issue is solved. "The two issues are clearly linked. Our voters were threatened at federal elections by terrorists in the Outer Islands, and they will be at the state elections too," Lin Da-ren, the PCP party chairman, told reporters.

Another wrench in this announcement is that the Grand Island Independence Front have said they will field candidates in the election. The GIIF, which has been designated a terrorist organisation by the federal government, is allowed to participate at territorial level as the Outer Islands Parliament has not passed a resolution barring them from doing so.

A statement claiming to be from GIIF leader Henry Matthew was e-mailed to various news outlets early this morning, saying that if the GIIF won a sizeable majority, they would consider it a mandate to unilaterally secede from Liverpool England.

This latest development is expected to drastically affect the Prime Minister's first press briefing later today.

http://www.natlenq.co.len/news/breaking-21470426.html
National Enquirer

BREAKING NEWS
Danahue orders Federal Emergency
By Lane Cresswell
Federal Politics Editor
In CCL

At his inaugural weekly press briefing at 15 Imperial Lane, Prime Minister Patrick Danahue stunned the gathered hordes of news media by announcing a federal state of emergency had been declared in the Outer Islands.

Earlier today, the Outer Islands territorial Parliament announced that it had passed a resolution of no-confidence in the government of Governor Peter Olivier, triggering elections for next month in the volatile region. However, this bombshell from Mr Danahue invalidates the power of the territorial Parliament.

Mr Danahue cited the threat from the Grand Island Independence Front as one of the reasons for the federal emergency, which is the second federal emergency called in a territory or protectorate in just two months, following Michael Harley's similar declaration in Ad'ihan.

"The Grand Island Independence Front, or GIIF, is a terrorist organisation and a menace to society in Liverpool England, in the Outer Islands, and on Île Grande. After consultations with my Cabinet we have agreed that it is impossible, in the current conditions, for any state election to proceed in the Outer Islands.

"The declaration, which I signed shortly before speaking to you, mandates direct federal rule of the territory from CCL, instead of the territorial capital in Modna Nord. In this case, I have instructed Governor Olivier, who is currently on Barrier Island, to return to the mainland, and informed the Governor of the International Protectorate (Ad'ihan), Commander Simon Collins, to govern the whole territory on CCL's behalf.

"The outgoing territorial Parliament has also been sacked."

The GIIF did not immediately make an official statement, although it did threaten to carry out further attacks similar to the bomb blast in Modna Nord last week. The current toll from that attack stands at 648 dead, 783 wounded and 16 missing.

The Progressive Communist Party (PCP) and the Forward Movement Party (RFM) have both greeted the Prime Minister's shock announcement with caution. The PCP said it "welcomed" the Prime Minister's decision to "get involved and postpone territorial elections in the Outer Islands, which would not have gone ahead smoothly."

Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has, as expected, also announced the formation of an investigative commission into allegations of voter intimidation on the Outer Islands in recent federal elections, to be led by former prime minister Mr Harley.

The Harley Commission will comprise of 13 members, including two members selected by each party, as well as Mr Harley. It will investigate the claims and situation on the ground, and will report to Parliament every fortnight for the next three months, before producing a final report in August.

The PCP complained that the proposed timetable was too long, but grudgingly accepted the proposal as a way forward. "We acknowledge the PM's attempts to solve this crisis, and are willing to co-operate with his proposal," a statement said.

OOC bump for Bostopia... still waiting for you to post!

http://www.natlenq.co.len/news/breaking-21470427.html
National Enquirer

BREAKING NEWS
Bostopia "complicit" in insurgency - Foreign Ministry
By Lane Cresswell
Federal Politics Editor
In CCL

The Foreign Minister, Jeremy Firston, has announced preliminary findings of a Foreign Ministry investigation into the insurgency on Grand Island, announcing that Bostopia was "complicit" with pro-independence rebels.

Mr Firston, who was prime minister for two months earlier this year during a spate of violent attacks by the Grand Island Independence Front, said that preliminary investigations over the past week into case details and evidence provided by the Outer Islands Territorial Police showed that the GIIF had links to the Bostopian government.

"It is very important to stress that we have only had five days to look things over so far, however, from what we can tell, the Territorial Police's findings that Bostopian elements are involved appear to be founded and it appears that Bostopia has been complicit in the rebel activity."

Correspondents say this is a blow to already-tense relations with Bostopia and Casari, which were first strained after a similar Territorial Police announcement five days ago.

Mr Firston said that the Federal Police were still investigating, and that he would thus not be able to elaborate more. "Our job in the Foreign Ministry is to assist the Federal Police in this particular investigation as it appears to deal with foreign elements, the links to which appear to be very strong."

The GIIF's ex-leader, Jacques Badonner, was recently sentenced to death by a court on Grand Island, although the sentence is being appealed. Mr Firston said that the Foreign Ministry and Federal Police might intervene to extract more information from Badonner, who was found with weapons made in Bostopia when he was caught in January.

The current Prime Minister, Conservative leader Patrick Danahue, has shrugged the findings off at a hastily-arranged press briefing. "As Mr Firston has said, these are just preliminary findings, and the Federal Police are still investigating. I don't expect any negativity from the Bostopians over this. They know, and the Casarans that the investigation is hardly complete; these findings could turn out to be erroneous and I think it would be a big mistake to jump to early conclusions."

Assassination threats

Meanwhile, the GIIF's current leader, Henry Matthew, has issued a video threat in which he warns former prime minister Michael Harley and current Outer Islands governor Peter Olivier that they will be killed.

Matthew addressed the two men directly in the video. "Michael Harley, complicit in the illegal act of denying the Outer Islands and Île Grande its sovereign right to independence and freedom, my men are ready for you when you arrive," Matthew is purported to say in the video, making a reference to the newly-formed Harley Commission which is to investigate claims of voter intimidation in the Outer Islands in recent federal elections.

Matthew also warns Governor Olivier that his plane will be targetted when he leaves the territory today, with a Federal State of Emergency now in effect in the Outer Islands. Governor Olivier has been ordered by the Prime Minister to return to CCL during the emergency, leaving the islands under the temporary care of Ad'ihan governor Cmdr Simon Collins. "Peter Olivier, complicit in the illegal act of denying the Outer Islands and Île Grande its sovereign right to independence and freedom, your plane is being watched," Matthew warns.

Governor Olivier, currently on the safer of the two Outer Islands, needs to return to Grand Island and the only international airport in the east of the island to fly off. Prime Minister Danahue told the press briefing that arrangements could be made to scramble a new plane to pick the governor up at an undisclosed location at an undisclosed time.

"It's certainly a possibility we're considering," Mr Danahue said.

http://www.btinternet.com/~david.boston/_bostopia/dailymailheader.png

"No Tensions" Between Bostopia and Casari

A spokesman for the Foreign and Empire Office has today stated that there are absolutely no tensions between Bostopia and Casari. Zach-Keith Green told reporters gathered outside Marlburg House in central Fort Boston that Bosto-Casaran relations are "superb" and that the problems in Liverpool England's Grand Isle have no bearing on those relations.

Z-K G. then told the press that any Bostopian involvement in Grand Isle's independence movement were purely speculation from the Liverpool England government, who were "driven toward putting a dent in an alliance which is proving very fruitful and popular for both parties concerned."

http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b20/Casari/casaritv.png

(Mabase, Whitefox, Casari) Several Legislative leaders were exceedingly critical of the standard of reporting going on in Liverpool England, after claims that relations between Bostopia and Casari were anything other than cordial and happy.

"We don't have any specific problems with Liverpool England, and it's hard to understand how anyone would get that kind of idea." Liberal Foriegn Minister Jennifer Rall said. "Attributing comments to unidentified correspondents and sources is a major problem in the sketchy journalism that takes place in many places today, reducing the believability of the news."

Labor Health Minister Keith Lorienne, also present at the conference, agreed with the comments, although not making a specific comment of his own.

OOC: I think you've BOTH misread the RP. I meant, tense LE relations with Bostopia and tense LE relations with Casari, not tense relations between Bos and Cas.

OOC: What misreading? *cough*

http://www.btinternet.com/~david.boston/_bostopia/dailymailheader.png

Stakes Raised In Grand Island Debacle

Senior members of the Bostopian National Party have today come out stating that Liverpool England's Government has been sending mixed-messages following their statement that was widely "mis-interpreted". The senior members said that the Liverpool England Government were trying to severely destablise Bosto-Casaran relations and furthur provoke tensions between Bostopia, Casari and Liverpool England, despite Casari not being mentioned in the statement from Jeremy Firston.

No spokesman from the Foreign and Empire Office was available for comment, though sources say there is no sense of panic in the Government following the claims from Mr. Firston.

(OOC: date - Saturday 29 April 2147)

http://www.natlenq.co.len/news/len/iles/5322104.html
National Enquirer

Peter Olivier successfully evacuated

Governor of the Outer Islands Peter Olivier was evacuated from Barrier Island by boat under the cover of night early Friday morning, the National Enquirer understands.

The governor is due to arrive on The Heartland's Pax Island within the next few hours, completing the first leg of his return to the mainland, according to a senior official within the Federal Government speaking to the National Enquirer on the condition of anonymity.

This comes after threats by Grand Island Independence Front leader Henry Matthew to assassinate Gov Olivier by targetting his plane at Ad'ihan International on Grand Island, from where Mr Olivier would have departed later today had the original plan gone ahead.

Not willing to govern
The source also said that the Ad'ihanais Governor, Cmdr Simon Collins, whom the Federal Government had appointed to govern the Outer Islands during the current Federal State of Emergency, would not take the job after all.

Government spokesman Lee McKinnock, from Prime Minister Patrick Danahue's Federal Conservative Party, confirmed that Cmdr Collins had told Mr Danahue he would not be willing to govern the Outer Islands.

"Governor Collins expressed his reservations to the prime minister in a telephone call yesterday about governing the entire Outer Islands on behalf of the Federal Government, citing his commitments as the International Protectorate's (Ad'ihan's) governor," Mr McKinnock told the Enquirer. "The prime minister has acknowledged this fact, and advised the governor to continue doing his brilliant work in Ad'ihan."

However, commentators say that this development is likely to irk the Conservatives, who may now push for Cmdr Collins - a Michael Harley appointment - to be removed as Ad'ihan governor, a possibility played down by Mr McKinnock. "There is no truth in speculation that the prime minister is looking to replace Governor Collins."

Barrier Island statehood?
Mr Danahue will now govern the Outer Islands directly from CCL. The opposition Greens have submitted a proposal in Parliament to split Barrier Island from the Outer Islands, making the two islands separate territories, in a move they claim is to avoid Mr Danahue making Barrier Islanders feel like they are being over-controlled by the Federal Government.

Greener Society Coalition spokesman Rick Rangel warned that if the bill was rejected, "Barrier Islanders may soon get sick of federal rule and resort to what has already happened on Grand Island."

The GSC, which holds 35 percent of the seats in Parliament, require 109 other MPs to back the legislation before it can pass. Typically, such a move would also require the Outer Islands government to pass a similar bill, or the Barrier Island local representatives to conduct a referendum. However, as the entire Outer Islands are under a federal emergency, this is not possible.

The National Centrist Board, which has 89 MPs and is one of the three partners in the current coalition government, has urged all its MPs to back the bill. The other coalition partner, the Social Democrats, has advised its MPs to make the decision "they feel is best".

Analysts say that should the bill pass, it would be a blow to Mr Danahue's government and the first sign that Mr Danahue will not find it easy to lead this government.

Former prime minister Mr Harley, who officially takes up his post as the head of the Harley Commission, investigating claims of voter intimidation, today, has thrown his weight behind the bill. "Certainly, since the problems are mostly on Grand Island to date, I'd expect Parliament to give the people on Barrier Island their own government and stop lumping them with Grand Island."

Parliament is expected to expedite the bill and vote on it within a week. Should it be passed, Barrier Island can expect to be an entity of the Federation in its own right "within days", according to Mr Rangel.

Mr Harley will visit Grand Island tomorrow as scheduled, despite warnings by Henry Matthew of an assassination attempt.

(OOC: date - Sunday 7 May 2147)

http://www.natlenq.co.len/news/len/national/breaking.html
National Enquirer

BREAKING NEWS
Liverpool England to split?

The governing coalition in CCL has passed a bill to grant various territories of the nation full sovereignty, ending the Grand Federation as we know it.

Prime Minister Patrick Danahue confirmed that the governments on Grand Island, Barrier Island, Lox Land Island, Ad'ihan, and the Southern and Northern Desert Regions had all been informed that they now had full control over all their affairs.

Mr Danahue said that the move was to avoid more bloodshed on Grand Island, and to end a months-long pro-independence insurgency on the island. "Liverpool England... the Grand Federation as we know it, is over."

The Ad'ihan Senate has reacted to the news by passing a motion of no-confidence in the Governor and de facto head-of-state, Cmdr Simon Collins, who has now resigned from his position.

Cmdr Collins' final move as Governor was to declare Chief Minister Alex Canning the first Prime Minister of Ad'ihan. Mr Canning has invited the Grand Island Independence Front (GIIF), the rebel movement that had been fighting the federal government, to join the Ad'ihan Senate in a move to cover the whole of Grand Island as an independent Ad'ihan.

The government of Barrier Island, which was granted full statehood as an entity of the Grand Federation just two days ago, has indicated that it will decline the offer of independence to stay a part of Liverpool England, although Mr Canning has encouraged them to join Ad'ihan.

The Harley Commission, originally set up last month to investigate federal voter fraud in the Outer Islands, has now been disbanded.

Lox Land Island's regional government has indicated that it would remain a part of the federation, as have the governments of the desert regions.

The federal government has indicated that a new constitution would have to be ratified as part of this move. Mr Danahue told reporters that the notion of a federation would be scrapped, with all local governments being scrapped and the whole country being run from CCL.

"A new flag would also be adopted," Mr Danahue said, pointing out that the current flag had 10 stars signifying the ten regions of the Grand Federation (Outer Islands, Gulp Mountain Peninsula, Lox Land Island, Western Territories, Northeast Region, Southeast Region, Northern Desert Region, Southern Desert Region, Government Territory, HPD posts).

The Foreign Ministry and Federal Police have both announced that with this development, they are dropping an investigation into the Bostopian government, suspected of helping the GIIF.

Mr Danahue has announced that he will resign as the final Prime Minister of the Grand Federation after a new Constitution is agreed.

Outer Islands secession not end of our problems, Danahue warns

Prime Minister Patrick Danahue has warned that the secession of Grand and Barrier Islands to join the International Protectorate of Ad'ihan as a whole new sovereign state of its own is "not the end of Liverpool England's problems".

Speaking to reporters after a session of Parliament held to discuss the future of the Grand Federation, Mr Danahue, who has said he will resign upon agreement of a new Constitution in Parliament, warned that the process of finalising the path the nation will take would be "a long and arduous journey".

"This development certainly is not the end of this country's problems. Today we've barely got started on how we should reform the legislature and electoral process in the country. It will be long and arduous."

Mr Danahue also said that the Grand Island Independence Front, which was the Bostopian-backed pro-independence militia fighting for sovereignty on the island, would remain marked as a terrorist organisation on Liverpool England, with its leader, Henry Matthew, still wanted by the Federal Police on murder charges. Matthew's predecessor as the GIIF chief, Jacques Badonner, is on death row in CCL. Mr Danahue said that despite Ad'ihan's independence, Badonner – and Matthew, should he be captured and convicted – would remain on death row.

In Parliament today, it was agreed that the notion of "states" would be scrapped, with the central government – which would move its capital to Orean – in control of everything. "This means a new flag will have to be agreed, and we have discussed the base theme of the flag," Mr Danahue said.

"The position of Prime Minister will also be abolished, as was approved today unanimously by Parliament, in favour of a President."

The real bombshell came when Mr Danahue confirmed the name of the country would change. "We'll need to hold a referendum, of course, but we expect most voters would approve the change, of the Grand Federation of Liverpool England to the Republic of Liventia."

Early straw polls taken immediately after his speech showed that around 87% of the people polled supported the name change.

Mr Danahue also indicated that electoral reform could be agreed on as soon as next week.

(Date: Tuesday May 16, 2147)
Referendum date set

Liverpool England's Prime Minister, Patrick Danahue, has announced that a date has been set for a referendum over a name change for the nation. Voters will go to the polls on June 3, 2147 — seven years to the day voters first elected a Prime Minister via Parliament for the first time — to approve or reject the change from "Liverpool England" to "Liventia". Opinion polls show an overwhelming majority of people approve the change.

Mr Danahue also announced that although Parliament had approved scrapping the Premiership for a Presidency, that would also be put to a referendum – and this is one thing that most people are against. Analysts say that this is likely to be rejected outright as in a presidential system it would not be possible to replace the government easily, something which has often been done in recent times in Liverpool England.

In another shock move, Parliament today agreed to drop German – which has long been an official language of the country – as a national language, leaving just English and French.

Electoral reform has also been agreed, with Liverpool England's 284 remaining constituencies set to play a larger part in elections. The Parliament, currently made up of 343 seats (including 23 former Outer Islands representatives), will be expanded to 575 seats.

Each constituency will get 2 MPs, with seven MPs not representing any constituency. Parties must nominate two members to run in each contested constituency. Independents may run alone, and if they win the ballot the other seat from the constituency becomes a non-representative seat.

With the abolishment of states and territories, out go the 44 seats previously awarded at state (and not constituency) level. The non-representative Parliament seats will be collated and distributed evenly among the parties, with any odd number of seats going to independents that did not win constituency elections.

With this announcement, all that is left to agree on is a flag. With the notion of 'states' gone, Parliament has yet to be able to decide on a new flag for the new nation. Should a new flag not be selected by June 5, the Republic of Liventia will default to using the old Liverpool England flag, with four stars in a diamond.

Other things that will need to be changed include references to the Grand Federation in existing government departments, ministries, and non-governmental organisations like the Organisation Fédérale de Diffusion (OFD or BSA).

Voters say YES to Liventia

"Today is an historic day for our great nation. Today you the people have agreed to leave our recent shaky past behind and move forward. Today, you have decided that Liverpool England is no more." Strong, emotional words from Liverpool England's final Prime Minister, Patrick Danahue, who will two days from now be sworn in at midnight as the first Prime Minister of Liventia.

Seven years to the day since Liverpool England chose its first democratically-elected Prime Minister via Parliament (following years of the PM being appointed by the President and approved by Parliament), the same voters were out in full force to vote on a referendum to major changes to the Constitution, including changing the nation's name.

The motion to rename Liverpool England to Liventia received overwhelming support, as nearly 90% of voters agreed to the change. However, the thought of bringing back a Presidency was too much for voters, only 38% of whom thought it was a good idea. The electoral reform package was included in the referendum as a non-binding vote, but 70% of voters approved of them, to which Mr Danahue was understandably pleased.

"This is a new chapter in Liverpool England, no, Liventia's history. The fact that our plan has gone mostly to plan, Presidency asides, is very good news. I am hence announcing my resignation as Prime Minister of Liverpool England or Liventia as of such time a general election date is agreed upon," he told reporters.

Liventia will retain Liverpool England's three-letter abbreviation of LEN and its online three-letter domain .len. The BSA or OFD, the only state-funded broadcaster, is to be renamed the Broadcasting Corporation of Liventia (BCL), with its television and radio channels being renamed as necessary.

Mr Danahue also announced a planned visit to Kelssek before he steps down, which will be his first and only trip abroad as Prime Minister. It is expected he will meet Kelssekian Prime Minister Pieere Gautain, his deputy PM Joshua Anger, as well as call on former prime minister Alan Kerk, before returning to Orean, the new capital of Liventia.