NationStates Jolt Archive

World Assembly Economic Union

A resolution to reduce barriers to free trade and commerce.


Category: Free Trade


Strength: Strong


Proposed by: New Leicestershire

Description: The World Assembly, resolved to strengthen the special bonds of friendship and cooperation among our nations; contribute to the harmonious development and expansion of world trade; provide a catalyst to broader international cooperation; create an expanded and secure market for the goods and services produced in our nations; reduce distortions to trade and ensure a predictable commercial framework for business planning and investment;


1.ENCOURAGES the free, fair and open trade/transfer of all goods, services, raw materials, commodities and labor between member states without prejudice;

2. ESTABLISHES the World Assembly Trade Commission (WATC) to arbitrate any and all trade disputes which may arise concerning the implementation of this legislation. Such arbitration may include, but is not limited to, cases involving alleged price dumping by WA members upon WA members, disputes over the interpretation of the terms and conditions of this resolution, and any alleged violations by member states;

3. AUTHORIZES the WATC to implement a process for the gradual elimination of protectionist devices restricting the trade of all goods, services, raw materials, commodities and labor, including but not limited to tariffs, duties, subsidies, subventions and quotas employed by WA member nations.

- The process will be conducted through a series of meetings convened by the WATC at its own discretion, but at least one per decade, with the goal of eventual elimination of all protectionist devices employed by WA member nations;

- Decisions arrived at by the WATC in the scheduled meetings are binding;

4. RECOGNIZES that certain domestic programs such as fuel subsidies, government stipends and small business loans are not protectionist in nature. Authorizes the WATC to review these programs and declare any that are not in fact protectionist in nature to be outside the scope of this resolution;

5. DECLARES that nations may apply reasonable restrictions on trade in the following cases:

- to ensure the stability of industries supplying essential products (such as military equipment or other items vital to national security);
- in times of severe economic crisis, where such measures are required to ensure a stable supply of essential products;
- to collect revenue for the sole purposes of economic recovery following severe collapse;
- in other special circumstances, as determined by the WATC.

6. AFFIRMS the right of nations to impose regulations, including embargoes, for cultural, safety, environmental, human rights, ethical or other reasons, on goods and services and their manufacture, subject to WATC approval;

7. EMPHASIZES that WA member nations reserve the right to employ retaliatory tariffs towards non-WA nations to prevent price dumping and authorizes the WATC to review and rule upon alleged cases of price dumping by WA members upon WA members;

8. REQUIRES member governments to establish programs to alleviate the possible impact of this resolution on workers and their families. Examples of the services provided by such programs are job retraining, help with relocation of displaced workers and training or assistance in small business start-ups.

This will be at vote soon (assuming it remains at quorum after the next update). We look forward to an informed and enlightening debate on the merits of the proposed Resolution. That won't happen, of course. Instead, we expect the discussion will devolve into the usual mayhem that occurs whenever free trade is discussed and end in a riot of some sort.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Good luck...

This is a good proposal to look at and it will be great in welcoming you to the hall of fame if it passes. I see little that can be opposed, but I also predict people who just want to get on our nerves!

So I support the "bye-bye unfair ship-docking taxes" theory and support this resolution.

The Peoples of Sasquatchewain have decided to base our decision regarding this proposal on a ritualistic coin-toss to be performed upon the presentation of said proposal.

While we agree to the general idea and most of the specifics of this proposal, we have a few qualms regarding it, primarily regarding Article 3. Why should WA nations withdraw all of their protective tariffs? We understand the reasoning to withdraw tariffs between WA nations, but the wording of Article 3 states that all tariffs are to be destroyed.

As well, we are not glad about the idea of withdrawing all tariffs against WA members. The WA might force certain moral behavior upon its members, but it doesn't stop members from acting in ways we find to be reproachable, in which case we reserve the right to financially punish them.

Why should WA nations withdraw all of their protective tariffs?
Because tariffs are an act of economic warfare. They are counterproductive and ultimately damage the economies of nations which employ them.

We understand the reasoning to withdraw tariffs between WA nations, but the wording of Article 3 states that all tariffs are to be destroyed.
The wording of Article 7 states that "WA member nations reserve the right to employ retaliatory tariffs towards non-WA nations".

As well, we are not glad about the idea of withdrawing all tariffs against WA members. The WA might force certain moral behavior upon its members, but it doesn't stop members from acting in ways we find to be reproachable, in which case we reserve the right to financially punish them.
For which they would financially punish you in return, no doubt. Which leads to an endless cycle of economic reprisals that accomplishes nothing more than to punish workers and consumers in both nations.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

We demand to know of these "New Leicestershire" folks, are you the first beast from Revelation 13, or the second? Also, when exactly does the provision requiring everyone to get your mark branded on our head or hand take effect? Inquiring Apocalypse-watchers want to know.

- Susa Batko-Yovino, Ambassador

We demand to know of these "New Leicestershire" folks, are you the first beast from Revelation 13, or the second? Also, when exactly does the provision requiring everyone to get your mark branded on our head or hand take effect? Inquiring Apocalypse-watchers want to know.

- Susa Batko-Yovino, Ambassador
I can't take responsibility for the poll options. Someone on my staff drew them up and as soon as I discover who that someone is they will be sacked.

Now as for the biblical reference...hmmm. I am a member of the Church of New Leicestershire, an Anglican in other words. I believe those rather fanciful stories in the Apocalypse of John are allegorical in nature and probably refer to Nero...or tithing...or something or other. I'm certain they are not, in any way, a reference to New Leicestershire.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Blasphemy! You deny you're the antichrist, which obviously means you are him! I'll have you know, Ambassador, the devil has already entrusted that position to me, and I won't give it up without a fight!

[pulls remote detonator from his pocket]

Now, stand aside, Mr. Watts. Stand aside, I say! Or I swear to God...

I'll blow up the Urgenchi delegation!

- Susa Batko-Yovino, Ambassador

Blasphemy! You deny you're the antichrist, which obviously means you are him! I'll have you know, Ambassador, the devil has already entrusted that position to me, and I won't give it up without a fight!

[pulls remote detonator from his pocket]

Now, stand aside, Mr. Watts. Stand aside, I say! Or I swear to God...

I'll blow up the Urgenchi delegation!

- Susa Batko-Yovino, Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire has a standing policy of not backing down to terrorists. Or former terrorists. Or terrorists serving as ambassadors. Or whatever you are. I will not stand aside.

*looks around nervously to determine the location of the Urgenchi delegation*

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

The Korintari people will not stand for this free trade resolution to pass. Our nation proudly declares that it has a tradition of fair trade. We look take a critical look at the character of a nation's government before ever considering entering a trade agreement with them. If we find something that is intolerable to us we refuse trade. Our policy is that we generally allow democracies with positive human rights records to trade goods and technology with us, but we do not permit their businesses to operate on our shores. Would be Korintari MNCs do not last long as we do not honor corporate personhood and in the event we did we would have a corporate treason law restricting outsourcing of jobs. The means of production of any good or service that is deemed a natural monopoly or a necessity of life are owned by the people through their elected government and economic councils. That said we have no qualms about articles 4-6, except we dont wish to have such an agency's decisions to be binding on all members for we are concerned about possible abuse.- T'blis Oltavi, Director of International Affairs

The Korintari people will not stand for this free trade resolution to pass.
Oh dear. We had so hoped that it would pass. Will you reconsider? At least let us vote on it? [/sarcasm]

Our nation proudly declares that it has a tradition of fair trade. We look take a critical look at the character of a nation's government before ever considering entering a trade agreement with them. If we find something that is intolerable to us we refuse trade. Our policy is that we generally allow democracies with positive human rights records to trade goods and technology with us, but we do not permit their businesses to operate on our shores. Would be Korintari MNCs do not last long as we do not honor corporate personhood and in the event we did we would have a corporate treason law restricting outsourcing of jobs. The means of production of any good or service that is deemed a natural monopoly or a necessity of life are owned by the people through their elected government and economic councils. That said we have no qualms about articles 4-6, except we dont wish to have such an agency's decisions to be binding on all members for we are concerned about possible abuse.- T'blis Oltavi, Director of International Affairs
Be thankful that New Leicestershire doesn't have a Tory government at the moment. You should have seen the suggestions for this Resolution that the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer forwarded to me.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Comrade Watts, may I request what your Director of Finance (Korintari equivalent to Chancellor of the Exchequer) recommended? By the way, we have decided by plebiscite that if this resolution comes to a vote in the WA, The Free Democracy of Korintar will oppose it, as free market capitalism is anathema to the Korintari way of life.- T'blis Oltavi
OOC: I am a Yankee, explain Tories to me. I know that "their bodies are in America, their heads are in England, and their necks ought to be stretched". Was wondering what a Brit's definition was of a Tory.

OOC: Tory means Conservative. Since NL is supposed to be an outgrowth of the British Empire, I'm assuming he means roughly the same thing. And the shadow chancellor, as far as I know, wouldn't have any power. He's just an opposition leader.

/me reads poll options.

what the end of defenestration? whatever will keep us watching the debate here...

Sara Mavenu
- UN Rep

OOC: I am a Yankee, explain Tories to me. I know that "their bodies are in America, their heads are in England, and their necks ought to be stretched". Was wondering what a Brit's definition was of a Tory.

OOC: Tory means Conservative. Since NL is supposed to be an outgrowth of the British Empire, I'm assuming he means roughly the same thing. And the shadow chancellor, as far as I know, wouldn't have any power. He's just an opposition leader.

OOC: OMGTKK is correct on all counts. Tories in New Leicestershire are the same as Tories in Great Britain. They are the Conservative Party. And the Shadow Chancellor is just a member of the shadow cabinet. He isn't an actual government minister, just a high-ranking member of the opposition party in Parliament.

I'm also a Yank. I'm RPing New Leicestershire as a former British territory in the mid-Atlantic. You can find out more about it (maps, history, etc.) by clicking the link in my sig.

Comrade Watts, may I request what your Director of Finance (Korintari equivalent to Chancellor of the Exchequer) recommended? By the way, we have decided by plebiscite that if this resolution comes to a vote in the WA, The Free Democracy of Korintar will oppose it, as free market capitalism is anathema to the Korintari way of life.- T'blis Oltavi
No you may not see what the Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer said. It is private correspondence.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

This strikes me as remarkably similar to the RL EU - which is a good thing in my opinion.

My government has directed me to affirm our support for this proposal

Blasphemy! You deny you're the antichrist, which obviously means you are him! I'll have you know, Ambassador, the devil has already entrusted that position to me, and I won't give it up without a fight!

[pulls remote detonator from his pocket]

Now, stand aside, Mr. Watts. Stand aside, I say! Or I swear to God...

I'll blow up the Urgenchi delegation!

- Susa Batko-Yovino, Ambassador


Ambassador Mongkha, and his assistant Tarmashirin of Herat had been delayed in arriving at this debate due to Mongkha's insistence that the Shaman from Trans-Baikalia, sent some time ago from Urgench should be found and given his orders as per the instructions of the ministry. They found the Shaman asleep in a bower of lost property items in the Strangers Bar. Lifting his head from his pillow of wigs and stinking of swampy decay the Shaman had told the elderly khan and his nervous assistant to stick their orders up their pampered backsides and then cursed them as descendants of tartar slave women. Before this odious fossil of ancient Urgench fell back into his stupor he shoved a dirty looking leather totem into Mongkha's hand and said in thickly accented Buryatic mongol "Don't wake me until you need me to lasso that pretty buck Reindeer" Mongkha and Tarmashirin looked at eachother in mystification, the elderly khan was sure this stinking mycophile was senile or deranged, and that the ministry had sent the Shaman to the w.a. simply to give him more work to do.

Mongkha, Khan of Kashgar and Tarmashirin of Herat enter the chamber.

"Well that was an entirely futile exercise wasn't it Tarmashirin ? " the Khan said to his assistant. Mongkha noticed that the chamber was unusually quiet ( "what a pleasure he thought" ) and looked around to see several delegations looking at him and his servant, some in dismay others with odd smirks on their faces.

The handsome but unstable Ambassador Yovino of Omigodtheykilledkenny was standing up and seemed to be brandishing a switch of some kind and was gesticulating his free hand wildly in the direction of the New Leicestershire delegation.

" Something strange seems to be going on honoured Khan." Tarmashirin whispered to his master, with a tremulous catch in his voice.

" I can see that Tarmashirin, I am neither blind nor stupid. " Mongkha said irritatedly. " The Kennyites are involved, strange will doubtless prove to be a gross understatement ".......

I believe that the idea is fine, but I refuse to vote for it on the grounds that I believe the WATC would serve the member nations of the WA better if it would meet more often, say once every 4 or 5 years instead of 10 years

That's only the minimum - it could meet every fortnight if it felt like it

The Fair Nation of Novisfarna agrees to this acceptable proposal. It is the belief of its Prime Minister that a one-world government is surely the best option for the future, and he will be looking forward to any resolutions that help this cause, like the current one.

The Republic of Novisfarna

I understand that it could meet as often as it felt necessary, but I still feel it would help the cause more if the minimum would be once every 5 years.

ABSOLUTELY NOT. I vote AGAINST this resolution. This resolution aims to eliminate trade embargos and tariffs. While I agree that these are unnecessary and dastardly policies between peaceful allies, but they are essential strategies for governments to express their dissaproval of the actions and/or policies of other governments.

Say the Republic of Wek and the Republic of Arkena are allies (or are atleast in no particular feud), a resolution like this is important for it makes it impossible for one of the nations to enact huge tariffs because of fear for it's economic stability. But history shows something like this would do more harm than good to the economy. In that light, I support this resolution.

But what scares me is with these actions outlawed, a country would be forced to flex its military muscle as opposed to its economic muscle when it wants to express its disapproval of another nations activities. Say some country is negligently harboring terrorists, or refuses to do anything about stopping its citizens from pirating, my nation should have the right not to conduct business with a country of this sort. These sort of things are not things you usually go to war about, but I would be forced to if this country refuses to work with me to solve these problems.

War is a last resort, economical war is the second-to-last resort. Don't force me to skip my last peaceful option in expressing my nation's disapproval of another.

Respectfully,
Gregg Nux
Arkenian President

Because tariffs are an act of economic warfare. They are counterproductive and ultimately damage the economies of nations which employ them.


The wording of Article 7 states that "WA member nations reserve the right to employ retaliatory tariffs towards non-WA nations".


For which they would financially punish you in return, no doubt. Which leads to an endless cycle of economic reprisals that accomplishes nothing more than to punish workers and consumers in both nations.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

We the Peoples of Sasquatchewain are prepared to withstand a minor impact upon our economy in order to stand our ground against immoral behavior. Or, well, we should have the right to choose to do so. We do like our monies...

This resolution imposes a model thought that not all nations want to implement. Maybe my first priority is to improve the lives of my citizens and not the so called free trade that would only help who is already rich. I'm for international cooperation yes, but not for indiscriminated free trade with no words for the poor.
Think about what's your first priority when you rule your nation:
-If your priority is to give money to those who are ALREADY rich, then VOTE FOR.
-If your first priority is to help the people who are struggling in your own country without being obliged to sell your good to everyone, then VOTE AGAINST.

We the Peoples of Sasquatchewain are prepared to withstand a minor impact upon our economy in order to stand our ground against immoral behavior. Or, well, we should have the right to choose to do so. We do like our monies...

Agreed. The New Leicestershire Ambassador seems to be of the opinion that ACTUAL warfare is a superior alternative to economic warfare.

If this resolution is passed, a repeal and/or a new version will have to be authored. It should not be up to some bureaucracy such as the WATC as to whether or not I'm allowed to block trade with barbarians.

I applaud the effort to end economic warfare, obviously WA's biggest goal is to bring world peace, and a lack of economic warfare is a big part of the presence of peace and prosperity. But you can't just ban economic warfare, you can't just ban war, you have to build a world in which these things don't NEED to happen.

It's amazing that a resolution this poorly thought-out has been able to get this far, and it's even more amazing that as of now the votes for are tripling the votes against.

How sad.

Gregg Nux
Arkenian President

But what scares me is with these actions outlawed, a country would be forced to flex its military muscle as opposed to its economic muscle when it wants to express its disapproval of another nations activities. Say some country is negligently harboring terrorists, or refuses to do anything about stopping its citizens from pirating, my nation should have the right not to conduct business with a country of this sort. These sort of things are not things you usually go to war about, but I would be forced to if this country refuses to work with me to solve these problems.
6. AFFIRMS the right of nations to impose regulations, including embargoes, for cultural, safety, environmental, human rights, ethical or other reasons, on goods and services and their manufacture, subject to WATC approval

First of all, terrorism and piracy are already covered under previous WA legislation, so those are probably not the best examples you could have used. Secondly, if the hypothetical nation you have described is really guilty of the acts you've mentioned then I'm certain the WATC would allow you to impose regulations up to and including outright embargoes.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Korintar considers economic warfare superior to actual, as our military is too small to fight large scale wars. Also we have a socialist (actually pareconist) system for our economy and free trade only benefits for profit MNCs and exploits workers. Having a retraining program is good, but a country must be allowed to chart its own economic path without having to worry about other nations' companies pushing their agendas on the government. Any company that wishes to do business in Korintar under a free trade agreement must respect the fact that it will face double taxation, exceptionally strict laws, limited access to resources, and few, if any, bargaining rights with the government. When we enter trade agreements our partners and us agree to which ever laws are harshest, those are the ones to follow.-T'blis Oltavi

This legislation does not ban embargoes or economic sanctions against enemy nations. Such devices are outside the purview of protectionism, since they are essentially political, and not economic, in nature. This was already discussed during the last free-trade debate. The fact is, this resolution does not oblige you to trade with anyone, but only to treat all goods and services equally when trade does occur. So embargo your brains out. The WATC won't stop you.

- Jimmy Baca, Deputy Ambassador

Korintar considers economic warfare superior to actual, as our military is too small to fight large scale wars.
But economic warfare is usually just a precursor to real warfare. If you look at the root cause of most wars, it is economics.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Oh yeah! Free trade. The Palentine enthusiastically supports!
Excelsior,
Sen Horatio Sulla

The Dominion of New Leicestershire has a standing policy of not backing down to terrorists. Or former terrorists. Or terrorists serving as ambassadors. Or whatever you are. I will not stand aside.

*looks around nervously to determine the location of the Urgenchi delegation*Ladies and gentlemen, we behold the excision of this devilish body's last scrap of human decency, where this False Prophet of Economic Armageddon would gladly sacrifice innocent lives to fulfill his demonic aspirations! The Lord condemns such wickedness, and reserves a special place in the Lake of Fire for their ilk! Witness now his justice on the infidel!

<click>

[The Urgenchi table smokes for a few seconds, then dies.]

Oh, God damn it! The furniture polish counteracted the phosphorus! And to think if that anti-terror resolution hadn't passed I could find some decent explosives...

Gosh, what's is this got to do with free trade? With this resolution more cash will be flowing into your nation (in taxes or profits).

Ladies and gentlemen, we behold the excision of this devilish body's last scrap of human decency, where this False Prophet of Economic Armageddon would gladly sacrifice innocent lives to fulfill his demonic aspirations! The Lord condemns such wickedness, and reserves a special place in the Lake of Fire for their ilk! Witness now his justice on the infidel!

<click>

[The Urgenchi table smokes for a few seconds, then dies.]

Oh, God damn it! The furniture polish counteracted the phosphorus! And to think if that anti-terror resolution hadn't passed I could find some decent explosives...



Mongkha observes the hissing and smoke of the attempted bombing of his desk with equanimity. Tarmashirin his assistant does not, he screams and throws himself on the ground. The Khan rises to give a rare voiced intervention, eschewing the Urgenchi custom of whispering he clears his throat and speaks at a more barbaric volume;

"Has honoured Ambassador Yovino completely lost his mind ? Has he no shame ? Must he make so dreadful a spectacle of himself ? An attempt on our lives can hardly have been calculated to induce the Honoured delegation of New Leicestershire to desist from their objective now can it ? Indeed no greater inducement to the contrary could surely be offered.

Of course I recognise that respected Ambassador Yovino might be playing some absurd double bluff of byzantine nature but I have decided that this is quite beyond the capabilities of his Excellency and am instead convinced that the renowned Federal Republic of Omigodtheykilledkenny has made a very grave error in allowing an individual who must certainly need the ministrations of psychiatric health-care professionals to represent them in this place.

I should say that his Excellency Ambassador Yovino was recently involved in what I can only describe as an ugly incident with our delegation's Cultural Attache, Princess Ryabat of Tocharistan who has been sent to recuperate at a luxury resort in the Tibetan Himalayas. With this latest outrage his Excellency has made a strong case for his immediate dismissal from office.

Our sincerest commendations must be offered to the esteemed delegation of New Leicestershire for their implacable stance in the face of wickedness and lunacy posing as political militancy. The Government of the Emperor will not soon forget what they have done today. We hope to match such bravery and readiness to sacrifice the lives of those who thought so well of them heretofore like for like should the opportunity ever arise. Such unflinching and ruthless commitment to a this resolution speaks volumes about the character of New Leicestershire and its government."

The elderly Khan looks down at his cowering servant and sneers. He pokes Tarmashirin with his cane and indicates to him to pull himself together. Tarmashirin gets up with a look of terror in his eyes and helps Mongkha back to his seat among the smoke and scorched plywood.

mandating free trade nullifies minimum wage laws by encouraging large corporations to buy labor in poor countries. East Kurdistan doesn't want to answer to some international governmental body. This resolution makes about as much sense as compulsory voting which makes about as much sense as the death penalty for attempted suicide.

This proposal seeks to advance the interests of Capitalism and Imperialism for the exploitation of workers by the Imperial Ruling Classes. The people of Meisterburg stand firmly in opposition to this resolution that seeks to aid the bourgeoisie in exploitation of the working class.

The Holy Empire of New Illuve is seriously concerned with the need for WATC approval in applying Article Six. While the exotic theoretical situations that can be discussed are legion, there are a plethora of realistic situations that can be examined.

Consider the case in which a nation has, based upon a well established religion, a prohibition against the importation, purchase, sale, or trade in some substance. Alcohol, pork, tobacco, and baby seal fur are all potential possibilities. The Holy Empire does not deem it correct to ask the WATC for permission to ban such items in this case.

Consider this case: New Illuve has a cultural history and heritage of pipe smoking. There are several world-class pipe makers and the pipe tobacco manufactured in New Illuve regularly wins international awards. Imposing minimum age requirements for the purchase of New Illuvean pipes and pipe tobaccos would be "imposing regulations" on the sale of said and would limit the free trade and commerce of the pipes and tobacco - against the expressed aim of this Resolution. Unless and until the WATC acts to permit your nation to embargo or restrict the importation and sale of pipes and/or tobacco no nation could legally stop New Illuvean companies from setting up shop and selling their wares.

And, as the WATC falls outside of this Assembly, the Holy Empire is also curious as to where the list of allowed actions under Section Six would be found, or even discussed? As She can only see a future Resolution directing the WATC to act in a certain manner as the solution, She fears that there will be no such restrictions allowed and thus any and all trade, subject to future WA Resolutions such as banning child pornography, will be allowed.

A better wording would have been to allow the WATC to overturn any such bans put into place by a WA member, instead of requiring the member to ask for an exemption. Although still unsatisfactory it would have provided better protection for legitimate prohibitions rather than forcing a member nation to petition the WATC as a beggar with hat in hand.

Unfortunately, it is no longer possible to change the wording of the proposal. The Holy Empire of New Illuve is forced to vote against the proposal.

mandating free trade nullifies minimum wage laws by encouraging large corporations to buy labor in poor countries. East Kurdistan doesn't want to answer to some international governmental body. This resolution makes about as much sense as compulsory voting which makes about as much sense as the death penalty for attempted suicide.



This resolution does none of the things you suggest honoured Ambassador. Careful reading of this statute would show that member states would retain all effective control over their own economies if it passes. The effect of this resolution is purely to create a fair and open structure for economic development through out the w.a.

Reactionary anti-capitalism is misplaced in this context honoured Ambassador.

Yours e.t.c. ,

This proposal seeks to advance the interests of Capitalism and Imperialism for the exploitation of workers by the Imperial Ruling Classes. The people of Meisterburg stand firmly in opposition to this resolution that seeks to aid the bourgeoisie in exploitation of the working class.

Yes, because we don't have four peces of legislation to prevent exploitation.

Oh (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14140556&postcount=25)... yes (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14140556&postcount=25) we (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14096784&postcount=23) do (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13835730&postcount=9)...

This will destroy the very bases of communism.

This will destroy the very bases of communism.

How exactly will this statute achieve such a thing, honoured Ambassador ?

Yours e.t.c. ,

This will destroy the very bases of communism.

Always a bonus...

The People of the Armed Republic of Schyllic are unanimously opposed to this legislation. (There were a few outspoken dissenters, but they've been offered free scholarships in exchange for shutting up) We resent this intrusion into our commercial affairs. We'll decide which of our laws are protectionist or not, and whether we want to protect any of our own vital industries, thank you very much. We know what's reasonable and required, for us, and which of our workers we can ill afford to be outsourced. Otherwise a Trade Commission established for the purpose of resolving disputes isn't a bad idea inherently, as long as it doesn't come parcelled with a lot of demands on how we run our nation.

This will destroy the very bases of communism.
Then at the end of my life I will go to my maker knowing that I have done a good thing.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Consider the case in which a nation has, based upon a well established religion, a prohibition against the importation, purchase, sale, or trade in some substance. Alcohol, pork, tobacco, and baby seal fur are all potential possibilities. The Holy Empire does not deem it correct to ask the WATC for permission to ban such items in this case.
Approval on such grounds would be granted automatically. What would be the purpose of forcing a nation to accept the importation of goods that they find abhorrent for religious reasons?

Consider this case: New Illuve has a cultural history and heritage of pipe smoking. There are several world-class pipe makers and the pipe tobacco manufactured in New Illuve regularly wins international awards. Imposing minimum age requirements for the purchase of New Illuvean pipes and pipe tobaccos <snip the rest>
That's just silly. You can still place age restrictions on the purchase of products.

And, as the WATC falls outside of this Assembly, the Holy Empire is also curious as to where the list of allowed actions under Section Six would be found, or even discussed?
OOC: That's just how committees work in the WA. Their activities are roleplayed.

As She can only see a future Resolution directing the WATC to act in a certain manner as the solution, She fears that there will be no such restrictions allowed and thus any and all trade, subject to future WA Resolutions such as banning child pornography, will be allowed.
Child pornography is already banned by the Child Protection Act.

This resolution does not preclude the passage of further free trade resolutions. If it did it would have been ruled illegal and removed.


David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Comrade Watts, are you opposed to other forms of heterodox economics besides communism, such as parecon, both of which Korintar implements? A small faction in the People's Assembly calling themselves the Liberty Alliance has suggested we reconsider the resolution saying that free trade in and of itself is not against Korintari ethics, rather it is the heirarchical and corrupt corporate system allied with it that is, for oftentimes those businesses that demand free trade also demand subsidies and control of parts of gov't so they can get rich off the backs of the poor. LA suggests that with the typical free trade model, it promotes perfect competition so that everyone is allowed to improve their standard of living. Thing is Liberty Alliance is a small faction, only 350 members and 1,745 sypathizers, so they are often drowned out by the concensus of the majority factions in the People's Assembly: Communist-Christian Coalition, Egalitarian-Nationalist Caucus, and Liberals For Life. Only Liberals For Life are willing to consider backing the movement, but it is lukewarm support at best. Also with a voter turnout of 278 million, only 3.7 million people supported the referendum for free trade. But trust me there has been serious discussion in Korintar about this.- T'blis Oltavi

Comrade Watts, are you opposed to other forms of heterodox economics besides communism, such as parecon, both of which Korintar implements?
Well I'm certainly opposed to communism. Parecon I'm familiar with. I've read Parecon: Life After Capitalism. I have to admit I'm not fond of the concept.

LA suggests that with the typical free trade model, it promotes perfect competition so that everyone is allowed to improve their standard of living.
That is correct.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Yes, because we don't have four peces of legislation to prevent exploitation.

Oh (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14140556&postcount=25)... yes (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14140556&postcount=25) we (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14096784&postcount=23) do (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=13835730&postcount=9)...

The exploitation to which I am referring is not simply based on the idea of workers not receiving high enough wages or proper safety, although those are most definitely important. The exploitation here is based on the fact that the Bougeoisie of strong capitalist nations seek to destroy the basis of any worker's movement worldwide. By creating a free trade agreement, the Ruling Classes hope to outproduce Socialist countries, hoping that they can stave off revolution by destroying the alliance of workers with the state powers that could assist World Revolution.

The Principality of Farfiggnewton would like to register its support for this resolution. Although the banishment of tariffs may be hard on the economies of individual nations at first, we believe that this barrier can be overcome. We are proud to have been part of this unifying event.

Mark Cheek
Chairman of Farfiggnewton

The exploitation to which I am referring is not simply based on the idea of workers not receiving high enough wages or proper safety, although those are most definitely important. The exploitation here is based on the fact that the Bougeoisie of strong capitalist nations seek to destroy the basis of any worker's movement worldwide. By creating a free trade agreement, the Ruling Classes hope to outproduce Socialist countries, hoping that they can stave off revolution by destroying the alliance of workers with the state powers that could assist World Revolution.
While I don't doubt the strength of your convictions, I do take issue with your invocation of Marxist rhetoric, given their progenitor's views on the international trade system:
But, in general, the protective system of our day is conservative, while the free trade system is destructive. It breaks up old nationalities and pushes the antagonism of the proletariat and the bourgeoisie to the extreme point. In a word, the free trade system hastens the social revolution. It is in this revolutionary sense alone, gentlemen, that I vote in favor of free trade.

The exploitation to which I am referring is not simply based on the idea of workers not receiving high enough wages or proper safety, although those are most definitely important. The exploitation here is based on the fact that the Bougeoisie of strong capitalist nations seek to destroy the basis of any worker's movement worldwide. By creating a free trade agreement, the Ruling Classes hope to outproduce Socialist countries, hoping that they can stave off revolution by destroying the alliance of workers with the state powers that could assist World Revolution.
*David Watts points and laughs at the funny communist*

*He chuckles and turns to a nearby aide*

Next we'll hear "Come and see the violence inherent in the system! Help! Help! I'm being repressed!"

*He chuckles some more and goes back to reading The Economist*

Protectionism towards industry promotes cronyism. It will make WA pass on good business opportunities to its influential members. That's not fair Ambassador Watts. Thats why i like it. I will have rich family.

The leader of Evansville Grand has decided to back this motion and has therefore decided to vote in favour of this motion.

This will destroy the very bases of communism.

And thats a bad thing?:D

Excelsior,
Sen Horatio Sulla

Originally Posted by Meisterburg
The exploitation to which I am referring is not simply based on the idea of workers not receiving high enough wages or proper safety, although those are most definitely important. The exploitation here is based on the fact that the Bougeoisie of strong capitalist nations seek to destroy the basis of any worker's movement worldwide. By creating a free trade agreement, the Ruling Classes hope to outproduce Socialist countries, hoping that they can stave off revolution by destroying the alliance of workers with the state powers that could assist World Revolution.

*David Watts points and laughs at the funny communist*

*He chuckles and turns to a nearby aide*

Next we'll hear "Come and see the violence inherent in the system! Help! Help! I'm being repressed!"

*He chuckles some more and goes back to reading The Economist*

"I've got your repressment right here, commie boy!"

With that comment, the good but unwholesome senator reaches to the table behind his desk and grabs a custard pie. He throws it toward the delegate from Meisterburg. Unfortunately the senator must have been hitting the Wild Turkey a little too hard lately, as the pie goes off target and lands squarely in the New Liechestershire delegation.

"I've got your repressment right here, commie boy!"

With that comment, the good but unwholesmoe sentaor reaches to the table behind his desk and grabs a custard pie. He throws it toward the delegate from Meisterburg. Unfortunately the senator must have been hitting the Wild Turkey a little two hard lately, as the pie goes off target and lands squarely in the New Liechestershire delegation.
The pie strikes David Watts squarely in the face. He calmly takes out his handkerchief and begins wiping the bits of custard off, as the remainder of the pie drips off his chin and falls like so many bird-droppings on his new Gieves & Hawkes suit.

He reaches under his own desk and produces a Melton Mowbray pork pie which he hurls in the direction of Sen Horatio Sulla. Unfortunately his aim is off badly due to his eyes still being full of bits of custard. The pie crashes into the head of the Kennyite terrorist Susa Batko-Yovino.

The New Leicestershire delegation launches a fusillade of Bedfordshire clangers in all directions.

Yakety Sax begins playing over the World Assembly's PA system. (http://www.imeem.com/samurock/music/2viGSMhj/yakety_sax_yakety_sax/)

"Good shot!" bellowed T'blis, face purple from laughing hysterically. "Sen. Sulla, you and Watts may be arses, but you sure *maniacal laughter* are entertaining to watch *maniacal laughter*. I apologize, but it's just too rich, pun intended. We thank Meistershire for backing us. Now if you will help us load these pies into the cannon, we can cream the clowns. Fire at will *much laughter*."

As Pies start to rain down, the senator seems to be in a daze. He coughs, then shakes uncontrollably. It appears he is having some sort of post traumatic stress attack from his Marine days. Quickly he grabs his Steel pot helmet from under his desk, and places it on his head. Grabbing a pie he stands up on his desk and yells at his shocked staff!

"Come on you apes! You want to live forever or something? CHARGE!!!!!"

Lustily humming the Notre Dame Fight Song, The good but unwholesome senator hurls a pie at the Cobdenian ambassador. Then he yells at his staff.

Come on! Another pie and quickly. We're about to be overrun, you bastards!"

The Altani delegation, which had merely been watching the debate up to this point, quickly ducks under their desk.

"Is it really too much to ask for one of these debates not to descend into a defenestration-fest or a food fight?" Irina says sadly. "I really need to stop wearing such nice outfits in here - maybe I should just cover myself in a garbage bag," she says irritably.

Arjel, meanwhile, quickly calls the security office in the Altani WA Mission. "Do we still have those old stale belyash? Ok, bring them up here. All of them. Quickly. Don't ask why, just do it!"

A few minutes later, a group of FSI agents quickly run up to the table, carrying several bags. They quickly duck under the desk as well. Soon after that, Arjel and the FSI agents jump out from under the table, flinging meat pies at anyone unfortunate enough to be nearby. A disproportionate number of said pies seem to be aimed at the more fluffy or socialistic delegations, as Arjel laughs with glee.

"I am not playing this game," Irina says huffily from under the table. "What are we, five-year-olds..." Her voice trails off as a cream pie of some sort lands squarely on her smart-looking dress. With an incoherent scream, she jumps out from under the table as well, lobbing meat pies at anyone who even remotely looks unscathed.

David Watts grabs a steak and kidney pie and flings it blindly across the Assembly. In an event that is likely to rend the very fabric of space-time, the pie strikes both His Exellency Sir Cyril Gordon Muffplaster Radionov Casaba O'Mahoney Askalan DeDerrier von Holsterman Wyznyjytski Ungern-Sturmberg Banerjee Svenssen M'Beki Vicenzo MacLehose-Strangways-Jones III, KCRC LOG of Cobdenia AND His Excellency Sustripicipo Lumil of Cobdenistan.

"I am not playing this game," Irina says huffily from under the table. "What are we, five-year-olds..." Her voice trails off as a cream pie of some sort lands squarely on her smart-looking dress. With an incoherent scream, she jumps out from under the table as well, lobbing meat pies at anyone who even remotely looks unscathed.

A meat pie firmly hits the good but unwholesome senator squarely in the upper chest, knocking him off his desk.

"MEDIC!", he yells from his position on the floor. A staffer helps him up to a sitting position and gives him a shot of Wild Turkey(TM). Gathering his strength, the Senator climbs back onto his desk. This time he is holding a pie with one hand, and the Palentine Flag with the other. Pugnatiously he loks out at the general assembly, his steel pot helmet slightly ascew, and says,

"You've got to to better than that! I've not yet begun to fight! Don't give up the Ship!!!"

After a dramatic pause, he yells,
"Fire the broadside and prepare to repel boarders! Clear the decks for Action! Damn the torpedos! Full Speed Ahead Mr. Adams!"

The Palentine delegation hurls some pies at the Altani delegation.

Dozens of Pies whizz all around Ambassador Mongkha and his Assistant, the elderly khan indicates to his assistant to place something which looks rather like a giant crossbow in his hands. Mongkha places a large Lemon Meringue pie into this menacing looking contraption.

" Now we shall have some sport Tarmashirin!" Mongkha's eyes are all aglow, he aims his bow at the Kennyite Ambassador and fires. Batko Yovino's face is instantly enveloped in a snow of meringue and lemon filling. "Ha! Take that you dog! Try to bomb me will you?!", Shouts the elderly Urgenchi shaking his fist.

Tarmashirin rushes to overturn the scorched desks around them trying to create some cover.

"Tarmashirin! Reload the apparatus you slack jawed fool! We will be at their mercy!"

Just as his assistant has reloaded the Piebow, a large stinking stake and kidney pie lands square in Mongkha's face, he lurches backwards and the Piebow misfires. The Lemon Meringue Pie flies towards the good but unwholesome Senator Sulla. The pie Hits the Senator in the side of the head covering him in sticky humiliation...

The Senator wipes the pie off his face, and yells to his staff,

"Enemy frigate spotted off our port-side bow. Helmsman change course 30 degrees. Gunners prepare a broadside!"

A staffer hands the unwholesme senator another pie. He throws it towards the Urghenchi ambassador. Unfortunately his aim is off, and the pie hits the Thessadorian Ambassador squarely on her....ummm....ahhhh....ahem.....rather bountiful assets.

Unfortunately his aim is off, and the pie hits the Thessadorian Ambassador squarely on her....ummm....ahhhh....ahem.....rather bountiful assets.
David Watts rushes to the assistance of the Thessadorian Ambassador.

My dear, here, let me help you with that.

And begins pawing...er...wiping, rather, her bountiful assets.

David Watts rushes to the assistance of the Thessadorian Ambassador.

My dear, here, let me help you with that.

And begins pawing...er...wiping, rather, her bountiful assets.

Wiping cooked organs and pastry from his eyes Mongkha has his assistant quickly reload his Piebow and spots Ambassador Watts molesting the lovely Thessadorian Ambassador.

"So throw me to the wolves will you!? Ha! Taste the sweet and tangy vengeance of Urgench!" Shouts Mongkha his superannuated face alive with warlike vigour. He aims and fires his Piebow at David Watts. Watts looks up to see a huge pie speeding towards him, and suddenly all is white and yellow for David watts.

Prince Benedict stood up and grabbed a loudspeaker from his assistant. "ENOUGH", he bellowed. The commotion died down and everyone looked at Sanctaria's represntitive. "Look at what we are doing, throwing deserts at each other. We are not savages. Well, not all of us", he added. "We are an advanced people." He gestured with his hand and a robot appeared. "We have robots now. They can throw our deserts for us." With that, the Prince ducked as he saw a merangue fly towards him. "Attack, sparky!!"

As the pies criss-cross the skies, the Sasquatchewaini delegation takes cover under their desks. All except for the Ambassador himself, who is too busy calmly sitting on his chair. He checks his watch and leans back, enjoying the show. Suddenly, a pie, which had clearly deflected off an individual's face, landed loudly upon the waxen desk. Startled at first by the sudden racket, the Ambassador controls himself once more and, upon investigation of the contents of his inside jacket pocket, retrieves a silver spork.

He gently and elegantly tastes the pie. It is of a flavor he has never before encountered, one which quite intrigues him. However, the temptation is too great. He grabs the pie and flings it wildly. Accuracy has always been a matter of pride, not of achievement, in Sasquatchewain. As luck would have it, the Urgenchi delegation takes yet another hit. The Ambassador stifles a gleeful laugh at his accidental (and most unpolitical) success.

Wiping cooked organs and pastry from his eyes Mongkha has his assistant quickly reload his Piebow and spots Ambassador Watts molesting the lovely Thessadorian Ambassador.

"So throw me to the wolves will you!? Ha! Taste the sweet and tangy vengeance of Urgench!" Shouts Mongkha his superannuated face alive with warlike vigour. He aims and fires his Piebow at David Watts. Watts looks up to see a huge pie speeding towards him, a suddenly all is white and yellow for David watts.
Watts is knocked completely off his feet by the oversized Urgenchi pastry. Dazed, he lies on his back covered in pie filling. The next thing he sees is the "rather bountiful assets" of the Thessadorian Ambassador hanging over him.

"Are you alright?" she asks.

"Um...yes. I'm.....could you..what I mean is, would you mind...if it isn't too much trouble...er..."

He loses his train of thought, captivated as he is by the wondrous sights hovering, nay, dangling over him.

She giggles.

"Silly boy. Here, let me help you up."

She helps Watts to his feet. He stands there stupidly, not sure what to say next.

"Er..wait here. I have dessert flinging business to attend to...don't go away."

He looks around and finds a platter of Sussex Pond Puddings. With much vigour he begins pelting Mongkha with them, hoping that the Thessadorian lass is duly impressed with his pudding throwing prowess.

Watts is knocked completely off his feet by the oversized Urgenchi pastry. Dazed, he lies on his back covered in pie filling. The next thing he sees is the "rather bountiful assets" of the Thessadorian Ambassador hanging over him.

"Are you alright?" she asks.

"Um...yes. I'm.....could you..what I mean is, would you mind...if it isn't too much trouble...er..."

He loses his train of thought, captivated as he is by the wondrous sights hovering, nay, dangling over him.

She giggles.

"Silly boy. Here, let me help you up."

She helps Watts to his feet. He stands there stupidly, not sure what to say next.

"Er..wait here. I have dessert flinging business to attend to...don't go away."

He looks around and finds a platter of Sussex Pond Puddings. With much vigour he begins pelting Mongkha with them, hoping that the Thessadorian lass is duly impressed with his pudding throwing prowess.


Now standing on a large pile of spoiled pie Mongkha takes aim at David Watts and fires " Eat Barbarian! Eat the pie on which is writ you doom!!" he shrieks, but as the pie leaves his piebow he slips and tumbles to the foot of the pie mound. The pie he let loose has missed its target, it ricochets catching the Ambassador for Saquatchewain and half of it ends up pasted all over the hind quarters of Senator Sulla.

Tarmashirin tends to his master, " Honoured Khan, we cannot hold the pass! what shall we do? Shall i call the Shaman? " Tarmashirin shivers at his own words..

Irina hoists a bag of the not-so-fresh belyash over her shoulder and begins tossing its cargo at every delegation within reach, running and ducking for cover like a guerrilla fighter. The Kennyite, New Leicestershire, Urgenchi and Palentine delegations all find themselves hit by small meat pies pelted furiously at them by a small, quick, elusive woman running around the tables pell-mell and tossing them like a sniper.

"Ruin my dress, will you! Eat belyash, you barbarians," she shouts, a slightly maniacal look on her face.

Back at the Altani delegation's desk, Arjel and the other FSI agents frantically throw belyash at the other delegations as well, trying to provide Irina some cover fire. One of the FSI agents stands on the table, bravely tossing some shots at the Sanctarian contraptions.

From under his desk, Riley Fluffer reaches up and detaches the microphone from its housing to speak, mustering the most dignified voice he can under the circumstances.

"The Xanthalian Federation stands strongly against this proposal. Free trade is an excellent mechanism in capitalist economies where GDP is used to measure welfare and equitable distribution is a secondary concern, but not all nations believe in the central role of money as a driving force and means to satisfaction in life or that increasing the net wealth of a population at the expense of the poor constitutes an improvement.

"Furthermore, even in cultures where money does play a central role, distribution and other exogenous factors are concerns. The theories of absolute and comparative advantage, market equilibrium, and equal exchange are all very attractive, but neoclassical free market economics does not account for real conditions as conveniently as its proponents believe. Free trade is necessarily of greatest benefit to the corporations and the already-wealthy, as they are best positioned to take advantage of it, and as a result does not resolve, and may even exacerbate, the problem of so-called 'developed' nations exploiting the labor and resources of the 'less developed' nations.

"While it would be unfair and misleading to claim free trade is without benefits, it is the Triumvirate's position that providing for the free movement of money and capital, which are commanded by the bourgeoisie, land owners, and/or government, while restricting the free movement of labor, which is all that the poor have to offer a market system, all but guarantees a system by which the wealthy can increase their wealth with very little obligation to, and in some places at the expense of labor. The Federation is unwilling to assert that free trade is not right for any country, but certainly argues that it is not beneficial to every country. Ultimately, this resolution is simply a mechanism of market imperialism that does not necessarily protect sentient rights, improve security, or improve the general welfare save by the measures that the market itself employs to measure its own success."

"We have some old fish guts and heads, do we not," asked a spotless, relatively speaking, Director Oltavi. "Better comrade, we have lutefisk," cried Director Salazar, "combine that with limburgher cheese in a pie and we will clear this place and declare victory for socialism!" "Let it be so," chuckeled a bemused Emeritus Sezadu,"arm the cannon, and unleash HELL, and spare the Xanthalian Federation Triumvirate!!" *Korintari maniacal laughter*

"And a special thank you in advance to the Korintari delegation for not dousing me in gelatinous fish and moldy milk. That is all for now."

Riley sets down his microphone and deploys the bulletproof glass shield around his desk set up for just these sorts of occasions to wait out the storm.

[i]The pie strikes David Watts squarely in the face. He calmly takes out his handkerchief and begins wiping the bits of custard off, as the remainder of the pie drips off his chin and falls like so many bird-droppings on his new Gieves & Hawkes suit.

He reaches under his own desk and produces a Melton Mowbray pork pie which he hurls in the direction of Sen Horatio Sulla. Unfortunately his aim is off badly due to his eyes still being full of bits of custard. The pie crashes into the head of the Kennyite terrorist Susa Batko-Yovino.Susa is hit full-long in the face by a volley of sweet pork. Angrily he clears his eyes as he tries to ascertain the source of the hit. His eyes light upon Ambassador Watts.

"Why you no-good, infidel-loving--"

*SPLAT!* He's hit in the face (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14274384&postcount=60) again by an errant lemon meringue offering from Urgench. Susa roars as he wipes the gunk out of his eyes yet again -- just in time to be splattered (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14274768&postcount=68) by an incoming Altani meat pie.

Throughout the entire episode, Cdr. Chiang has just been sitting by quietly, thumbing through a magazine as pies whiz past her in every which direction.

"Commander! Are you gonna do something? Or are you just gonna sit there and let me be barraged?"

Chiang doesn't even look up. "You know, Ambassador, if you'd just blown up the Urgenchi delegation like you were supposed to, they wouldn't be throwing pies at you," she lazily replies.

"Well, fire back at them!" insists Susa.

"We haven't any pies."

"Then just throw whatever we have back at them!"

Moments later, a frightened yell can be heard echoing across the chamber as a pie-filling-covered Susa Batko-Yovino flies through the air toward the Urgenchi delegation. He lands in the lap of Princess Ryabat, and promptly fades into unconsciousness...

Which is unfortunate, for right then, just across the way, the Thessadorian Ambassador, her bust besotted with cherry glaze, had slapped David Watts across the face.

"Get off me you pervert!" she exclaims furiously. "Who do you think you are, Manuelo Fernanda?! I can clean myself off!"

With that, she grabs her water bottle and immediately soaks her front. She starts shaking her jubblies liberally, giggling excitedly as everyone within a 10-foot radius is hit in the face by cherry filling.

Me personally...i hate free trade but as i was reading the proposed bill, it allowed you all sorts of opptions that appeal to me and my country. I say vote for it

From under his desk, Riley Fluffer reaches up and detaches the microphone from its housing to speak, mustering the most dignified voice he can under the circumstances.
David Watts picks up a stray microphone and attempts to respond, while continuing to hurl Sussex Pond Puddings and simultaneously dodge pastries and confections flung at him by various delegations.

"The Xanthalian Federation stands strongly against this proposal. Free trade is an excellent mechanism in capitalist economies where GDP is used to measure welfare and equitable distribution is a secondary concern, but not all nations believe in the central role of money as a driving force and means to satisfaction in life or that increasing the net wealth of a population at the expense of the poor constitutes an improvement.

Well thats...

*splat*

...one way of looking at it. But if you'll consider...

*hurls a pudding*

...that...

*hurls a pudding*

...free trade policies...

*hurls a pudding*

...will increase people's access to a greater variety of goods at...

*dives under a table*

...decreased prices, then I can't possibly see how it wouldn't improve the lives of...

*runs across the aisle and hides behind a chair*

...workers and consumers.

*dodges a pineapple upsidedown cake*

It's about quality of life, and...

*runs behind a row of WA flags*

...freedom of choice. This act will increase people's access to everything from consumer goods to clothing to food to medicine...

*is hit by a creme-filled Bismarck*

...and its benefits shouldn't be measured in monetary terms alone.

"Furthermore, even in cultures where money does play a central role, distribution and other exogenous factors are concerns. The theories of absolute and comparative advantage, market equilibrium, and equal exchange are all very attractive, but neoclassical free market economics does not account for real conditions as conveniently as its proponents believe. Free trade is necessarily of greatest benefit to the corporations and the already-wealthy, as they are best positioned to take advantage of it, and as a result does not resolve, and may even exacerbate, the problem of so-called 'developed' nations exploiting the labor and resources of the 'less developed' nations.

Look, I believe strongly...

*hurls a pudding*

...in the...

*hurls a pudding*

...free...

*hurls a pudding*

...market...

*hurls a pudding*

...system. Yes, certainly those who provide capital will benefit from this. Those who risk their fortunes to create wealth should reap...

*dodges a flying pizza*

...a certain reward for having done so. After all, those who put their wealth at risk, and succeed, create jobs and opportunities for...

*hurls a pudding*

...the rest of us. As for the "developed nations versus less-developed nations" allegation, I don't see it like that at all. Trade is a two-way street and wealth flows in both directions. Consider...

*is splattered by a large fruit and yoghurt salad*

...that even though the resources of a developing nation are "exploited", as you say, at the same time, the corporation doing the "exploiting" is providing jobs in that nation. Jobs that formerly did not exist and at a wage-level beyond the wildest dreams of native workers only a generation earlier. Free trade...

*runs back across the aisle*

...does increase the standard of living in developing nations. It just does.

"While it would be unfair and misleading to claim free trade is without benefits, it is the Triumvirate's position that providing for the free movement of money and capital, which are commanded by the bourgeoisie, land owners, and/or government, while restricting the free movement of labor, which is all that the poor have to offer a market system, all but guarantees a system by which the wealthy can increase their wealth with very little obligation to, and in some places at the expense of labor.

*hurls a pudding*

Did you notice that Article 1 encourages "the free, fair and open trade/transfer of all goods, services, raw materials, commodities and labor between member states without prejudice"?

*runs up the aisle and hides behind the dais*

And did you notice that Article 3 authorizes "the WATC to implement a process for the gradual elimination of protectionist devices restricting the trade of all goods, services, raw materials, commodities and labor"?

I think that's fairly significant, putting aside the fact that some nitwit on my staff submitted this with the American spelling of labour.

I believe in the free flow of goods, services and labour across international borders and I intend to expand upon the labour aspect in a future resolution.


The Federation is unwilling to assert that free trade is not right for any country, but certainly argues that it is not beneficial to every country. Ultimately, this resolution is simply a mechanism of market imperialism that does not necessarily protect sentient rights, improve security, or improve the general welfare save by the measures that the market itself employs to measure its own success."

*is struck by a coconut creme pie*

*runs for cover behind a statue of DemonLordEnigma*

Protecting sentient rights and improving security are best left to other resolutions. It wasn't meant to do those things. It does, however, improve the general welfare and not only by market measures. Our governments simply disagree with one another on this.

I know you are skeptical, but I hope you'll be patient and see how this plays out. Many of the benefits of free trade policies do not appear instantaneously. They won't be apparent overnight, but this will help build a better world for us all.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

*wishes he had worn a Mackintosh to work today*

Which is unfortunate, for right then, just across the way, the Thessadorian Ambassador, her bust besotted with cherry glaze, had slapped David Watts across the face.

"Get off me you pervert!" she exclaims furiously. "Who do you think you are, Manuelo Fernanda?! I can clean myself off!"

With that, she grabs her water bottle and immediately soaks her front. She starts shaking her jubblies liberally, giggling excitedly as everyone within a 10-foot radius is hit in the face by cherry filling.

As the Thessadorian Ambassador cleans herself by means of jiggling, Arjel and the FSI agents halt their pie-chucking, apparently unable to keep their eyes away from the sight. The other delegations take advantage of this, and bombard the Altani with food items. No one at the Altani table seems to notice the bombardment, however.

Irina, who is still ducking around tables, sneers at her male colleagues. "Stupid boys. You act like you've never seen a woman's chest before...actually, those are rather nice," she says, staring briefly at the Thessadorian Ambassador before returning to her snipering.

Susa is hit full-long in the face by a volley of sweet pork. Angrily he clears his eyes as he tries to ascertain the source of the hit. His eyes light upon Ambassador Watts.

"Why you no-good, infidel-loving--"

*SPLAT!* He's hit in the face (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14274384&postcount=60) again by an errant lemon meringue offering from Urgench. Susa roars as he wipes the gunk out of his eyes yet again -- just in time to be splattered (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=14274768&postcount=68) by an incoming Altani meat pie.

Throughout the entire episode, Cdr. Chiang has just been sitting by quietly, thumbing through a magazine as pies whiz past her in every which direction.

"Commander! Are you gonna do something? Or are you just gonna sit there and let me be barraged?"

Chiang doesn't even look up. "You know, Ambassador, if you'd just blown up the Urgenchi delegation like you were supposed to, they wouldn't be throwing pies at you," she lazily replies.

"Well, fire back at them!" insists Susa.

"We haven't any pies."

"Then just throw whatever we have back at them!"

Moments later, a frightened yell can be heard echoing across the chamber as a pie-filling-covered Susa Batko-Yovino flies through the air toward the Urgenchi delegation. He lands in the lap of Princess Ryabat, and promptly fades into unconsciousness...

Which is unfortunate, for right then, just across the way, the Thessadorian Ambassador, her bust besotted with cherry glaze, had slapped David Watts across the face.

"Get off me you pervert!" she exclaims furiously. "Who do you think you are, Manuelo Fernanda?! I can clean myself off!"

With that, she grabs her water bottle and immediately soaks her front. She starts shaking her jubblies liberally, giggling excitedly as everyone within a 10-foot radius is hit in the face by cherry filling.


Mongkha feels something wriggling in his pocket as he lays at the foot of the pie hill in within the wring of upturned furniture around the Urgenchi mission. The elderly Khan is horrified, nothing has wriggled in his pocket since.. well never.

Pies fly through the air as the Khan looks down and sees the tiny leather totem which the Shaman had given him in the bar before this "debate" wriggle free from the pocket in his robes. In horror Mongkha realises this totem is shaped like a tiny female Reindeer and that of its own volition it is moving, and is in fact standing now on the pie strewn floor. This leathern Reindeer shakes itself and looks about then bounds away from Mongkha and the mound of pies. A sickening realisation flashes into Mongkha's mind, that when the Shaman had said he should only be awakened if someone needed him to lasso the pretty young buck reindeer he had not been speaking to the Khan or his assistant he had in fact been speaking to this tiny simulacrum.

Mongkha cannot believe his eyes or his deductions and decides it is the stress of battle playing upon his mind when he hears Tarmashirin shriek in fear and sees him point to where the tiny Reindeer is prancing on a chair.

"You see it Tarmashirin? But what can this mean? It is impossible, such things are the stuff of fairy tales!" Tarmashirin faints away in terror, and suddenly the room is suffuse with the wet smell of arboreal decay and the freezing freezing cold of the Taiga forests of Siberia.

In the same moment Mongkha sees Ambassador Yovino fly through the air as though possessed with supernatural power, his face is covered in meringue which adds to his otherworldly appearance. Yovino flies toward the totem as though in slow motion but with an inevitable force as though he were magnetised to it. And then his is curled up in the chair where an instant before the totem had danced and is sleeping like an infant muttering "Ryabat, ah Ryabat" and slightly twitching his left leg as animals are apt to do when they sleep.

Mongkha is mystified, Ryabat is in the Tibetan Himalayas recovering from Yovino's attempts upon her dignity, and Yovino heard him say so earlier in the debate, is Yovino mocking him? Mongkha is convinced that Yovino is not in control of himself and doubts he could be joking.

Mongkha is transfixed, and utterly nonplussed. The events of the last few seconds are scenes from the most bizarre of dreams. He checks his pulse and pinches his arm. And then he is enveloped in stench of some foul pie possibly a fowl pie thrown by the Korintari.

As Mongkha turns to face his new aggressors with a loaded piebow he sees the Shaman marching into the Chamber, not happy to have been awakened.

The Shaman stops to survey the situation. He throws his hands in the air and says something in Buryatic mongol and slowly a whirl of pies begins to gather in the air around him. The whirl gathers strength, until it is a raging twisting mass of angry pastry. Invisible behind the spinning wall of pies the Shaman speaks one word and suddenly the wind of pies disintegrates. Pies fly everywhere thick as as snow storm, anyone who is not completely protected is instantly pelted with dozens and dozens of pastry missiles.

Ambassadors and staff fall to the ground in this blizzard and all is covered in sweet lemony filling and crunchy fragments of meringue. An eerie but chaotic silence prevails for an instant and then the battle resumes as though nothing had happened.

The Shaman bounds over to Monghka who is dumbfounded and caked in pie so that he resembles a shocked yellow and white snow man.

"Aaaah!!!" Shouts the Shaman to Mongkha, "Now this is the sort of diplomatic mission I can really get my teeth into! Hand me a piebow man, we have barbarians before us who have never seen the fury of the Horde!"


Batko Yovino continues to sleep, covered in pie, dreaming that he and his lovely Reindeer mate whom he calls Ryabat are speeding across the tundra with the northern lights to light their way.

After an extended absence from the WA General Assembly, Richard wandered into the august body amidst a large food fight consisting mainly of desserts. Ambassador York quickly submitted a FOR and promptly aimed a rather nice Blueberry Pie at his Altani counterpart, who was trying to duck around the tables.

Having finished his attempt at a reply to Riley Fluffer, David Watts returns to the Thessadorian Ambassador and attempts to pick up where he left off. He takes out another handkerchief and starts to daub, well actually to grope, her "bountiful assets" and then...

*slap!*

"Get off me you pervert!" she exclaims furiously. "Who do you think you are, Manuelo Fernanda?! I can clean myself off!"

With that, she grabs her water bottle and immediately soaks her front. She starts shaking her jubblies liberally, giggling excitedly as everyone within a 10-foot radius is hit in the face by cherry filling.

Watts is struck dumb by the slap, then struck dumber at the sight of the jubblies jiggling. He walks back to his desk.

I believe I'll go back to the office for a shower. A cold one.

Shall I pick up some more pies and puddings? Our arsenal seems to be severely depleted. I'll be back shortly, with wet-weather gear for all of us.

Irina, who is still ducking around tables, sneers at her male colleagues. "Stupid boys. You act like you've never seen a woman's chest before...actually, those are rather nice," she says, staring briefly at the Thessadorian Ambassador before returning to her snipering.

Brief though Irina's distraction is, it's still enough to send one belyash flying astray. Unfortunately, this is the moment that Cerys chooses to come rushing in. "Sorry I'm late, trade resolutions send me to sleep but someone said Susa had blown urp--"

Splat.

Having elderly belyash appear in your décolletage would upset the mildest of women. Cerys is not the mildest of women. It takes her a few seconds to get over the shock, but then she grabs the mutton pie that one of the Gobbannaen delegation was about to tuck into and throws it at Irina, screaming about dry-cleaning bills.

Sadly, the over-arm forward throw is not a legal manoeuvre in rugby. While Cerys is quite up to putting a fair bit of power into her pie-throwing, her accuracy leaves a lot to be desired. Especially by the now liberally splattered and distinctly unwholesome Senator Sulla.

"I respect your views, Ambassador. Frankly, I'm not too far off base with you in my view of free trade. However, even were it not Triumvirate policy to stand against these sorts of resolutions, I would continue to dissent that a free trade regime should be imposed on the whole World Assembly. Not everyone believes that having your choice of two hundred breakfast cereals encased in plastic and cardboard is the epitome of human acheivement, even when environmental considerations are put aside, which, I should add, they oughtn't be."

Riley pauses to watch a pie tin richochet off his enclosure, then continues. "Wealth isn't defined for everyone the way you define it. The accumulation of goods and services does not a happy life or a utopian society make. We should have respect for alternative economic systems, so long as there are no glaring sentient rights issues with doing so. If you require more evidence for the potential destructiveness of free trade to welfare, though, I encourage you to consider certain developing countries in which people starve every day in part because farmers have followed the free market's incentives to grow cash crops rather than food that would otherwise help feed them and their countrymen. I can continue giving examples, if you wish."

World Trade Organization !!!!!

Ban this OWG system now, there is no good to come from it.
:mad:

OOC: I agree Selene Heaven. I personally believe my home country, America, should withdraw from the WTO. The WA resolution currently present for vote creates such a wicked organization. NS is about creating a better world, esp. WA, not replicating the evils of the real world- not for me anyway.

IC:"Bring forth the most foul pie," requested T'blis.
secret txt msg: sspnd ovr wts ok;) rotflmao!!

*Bob picks up his cell phone and calls his office*
Sven, it's Bob. I need pies, lots of pies. Oh and when you bring them down here, grab my rain gear on your way out.

Based on the benefits that would arise should our country support this act, I as WA Representative for the Kingdom of Santos Rivera (of which San Guillermo is its WA version), on behalf of His Majesty King Michael I, votes FOR toward the passage of this act.

Doña Grace Consuelo de Aramade-Cortez,
Riverian Representative to the World Assembly

I implore all of you to vote against the World Assembly Economic Union. Such an agreement yields a slippery slope which soon could inhibit the right of independent nations to make economic and fiscal policy in the best interest of their people. I agree that on should be mindful of the world implications of one's policies, but I do not believe the world should dictate the policies of one's country.

after covering Watts with the pie most foul "Don't worry about us, we have not only opposed it through our vote, but, also from the smell of things, through the outdated contents of my fridge: Lutefisk, limburgher, fish guts and heads, haggis- all waaaayy past its prime," smiled T'blis, admiring his handiwork, aka the New Leicestershire delegation. to NL "No amount of showers- hot or cold will eliminate that odor, comrades!" *loling 'til kingdom come*

David Watts returns from his office, showered, refreshed and wearing rain gear. He brings several boxes of assorted pies and spare rain gear for his aides.

If you require more evidence for the potential destructiveness of free trade to welfare, though, I encourage you to consider certain developing countries in which people starve every day in part because farmers have followed the free market's incentives to grow cash crops rather than food that would otherwise help feed them and their countrymen. I can continue giving examples, if you wish."
Yes but I could cite examples of developing countries where the farmers gave up a failing attempt to grow food crops and instead turned to more profitable cash cops. And where the store shelves are plentifully stocked with imported foods that are much, much more affordable than the previously domestic-grown brands. Switching to a profitable cash crop and importing food led to an increased food supply, lower prices and an end to starvation.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire


World Trade Organization !!!!!

Ban this OWG system now, there is no good to come from it.
:mad:

I implore all of you to vote against the World Assembly Economic Union. Such an agreement yields a slippery slope which soon could inhibit the right of independent nations to make economic and fiscal policy in the best interest of their people. I agree that on should be mindful of the world implications of one's policies, but I do not believe the world should dictate the policies of one's country.

*pelts the Selene Heaven and Dnomyar III delegations with Bakewell tarts*

"The idiotic capitalists don't know when to give up!* Another pie most foul... this time fresh horse manure," screams Director Oltavi with glee.

The doors of the World Assembly burst open and in comes a marching band playing Entrance of The Gladiators (http://www.imeem.com/bertramgoh/music/VofRU5W5/tokyo_kosei_wind_orchestra_entrance_of_the_gladiators/), followed by elephants, lions, tigers, dancing bears, jugglers, fire-eaters, clowns and little dogs.

Riley is back to a normal sitting position at his desk now, sipping a cup of coffee that came seemingly out of nowhere. "As a Trasnian, I see a lot of legitimacy to that argument, but let me put on my Mirfakan hat for a moment, since I'm here on their behalf, too. The food that is sold may be cheaper, but many of those who used to grow their own food are no longer doing so, having been driven off their farms by landowners and corporations who can turn them into money-making ventures. They then must sell their labor for a pittance that may or may not be sufficient to feed them and their families. The problem with capitalism is that it assumes when more is being sold, people are better off. If no money is generated, something is worthless by the calculus of the market. By undermining those activities and resources by a process of commodification, it undermines both the common welfare and its own foundation."

He sighs, leaning back in his chair and examining the ceiling. "Let's be honest, though; we could go back and forth like this forever. The point is, since there is, at least in my opinion, no definitive and universal answer to the question of free trade, we oughtn't impose it on our fellow nations in the World Assembly any more than Trasnia ought to impose it on the other states in the Xanthalian Federation. My country's motto is 'Unity Through Respect,' not 'Unity Through Assimilation.' I think the same ought to apply to the WA."

He looks back towards Watts, lifting the cup to his nose to take a deep whiff of the coffee's aroma, enjoying the peace of his protective enclosure for a moment before continuing. "I don't expect to sway the official position of the Dominion, or even your own opinion. After all, representatives come here to assert and defend their government's position, not determine it. I'm just trying to show that there are legitimate reservations I and others have about this resolution."

Between Yakety Sax, the circus music, lions and tigers roaring, elephants doing whatever it is that elephants do, and the screaming of ambassadors, the cacophony is deafening.

David Watts grabs a bullhorn and climbs atop his desk

Just a little announcement. In celebration of New Leicestershire's first Resolution at vote, my delegation is providing free beer for the duration of the voting. Come by and get a pint of New Leicestershire Brown Ale from us, or stop by the Strangers Bar for the drink of your choice. It's on us. Cheers!

David Watts climbs down from his desk and walks over to the Xanthal delegation to have a word with Riley Fluffer.

"I don't expect to sway the official position of the Dominion, or even your own opinion. After all, representatives come here to assert and defend their government's position, not determine it. I'm just trying to show that there are legitimate reservations I and others have about this resolution."
I understand that there are reservations. This is a big step that we're asking the World Assembly to take. There were free trade resolutions under the old UN, but nothing as massive as this.

I'm not a madman, Mr. Fluffer. Neither I, nor my government, would have submitted this if we did not believe that it was the best course for the WA to take. We want people everywhere to prosper. I, and others on our side, genuinely believe that free trade policies will in the long run improve the lives of all our citizens. Give it a chance. See if things actually do improve, as we say they will, and if they don't I will be the first to call for a repeal.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

"How dare you try to liquor up the delegations! The Korintari delegation esteems itself in being teetotallers, even though it is obvious other nations are not exactly sobre when they enter this hallowed ground. We respect most WA resolutions, however to impose these trade guidelines would destroy Korintar. Sure it does improve GDP, but it fails to take in externalities, such as pollution. Also we regard GDP to be a horrid economic measurement as it does not account for wealth imbalances, literacy, mortality or other issues which Korintar takes into consideration when trying to determine our economic health. By most indices other than consumption and GDP, we actually do well. Gov't approval ratings hover around 87%, literacy is 100% in three languages, life expectancy is typically in the 90s as we do not have the diseases of the hyperindustrialized uberconsumerist states, 45% of our youth go on to tertiary education, the top two quintiles of the Lorenz Curve contain no more than half of the nation's wealth, our air and water quality are nonpariel. Sounds pretty good, however our military is crap, our GDP is embarrassingly low, our currency is not valued highly, and domestic consumption is nil. All this is due to our protectionist policies and 100% tax rate. Might this resolution improve some figures, yes. But the Korintari people do not care as they do not value luxury to the degree New Leichestershire does. That said, I yield," said Directors Salazar and Oltavi.

"Can I get a raincheck on that ale? I'd fetch it now, but for reasons I can only blame on my own idiocy I wore my favorite suit today and I don't want to get it dirty. Have you seen how much they charge to do laundry here? Let's see if we can't get competition to do something about that."

Sadly, the over-arm forward throw is not a legal manoeuvre in rugby. While Cerys is quite up to putting a fair bit of power into her pie-throwing, her accuracy leaves a lot to be desired. Especially by the now liberally splattered and distinctly unwholesome Senator Sulla.

Through his bloodshot and pie splattered eyes, the good but unwholesome senator looks for where the last pie flew from. Noticing Cerys, he yells to his staff, from his perch on the desk,
"Helmsman, Hard to Starbord! Gunners, full broadside!"

With that order, his staff throws about five pies at Cerys. Since they are reletively sober, their aim is much better. Custardly death rains down on the Ambassador. One of the staffers yells up to Sulla,

"Boss, we're running low on ammo. We need to restock!"

Sulla notices the chaos taking place on the floor of the festering snakepit...errr...General Assembly.

"Great googly moogly! We're being surrounded! You'll have to make a break for it! Try the comminsarry first. Then check out the office if you must. Get some of the Jagermonsters for reinforcement as well, now pass me the bugle!"

One of the staffers hands the Senator a cavalry bugle. the senator yells,

"CHARGE!!!!",

Then he procedes to play Gary Owen, as a few members make a break for it.

Ladies....and.....Gentlemen!

As international performers, the Nomadic Peoples of Ringling Brothers would like to express our wild and enthusiastic support for this free trade measure!

*a tiny car full of clowns and little dogs drives by wildly and enthusiastically*

And as a show of our gratitude, we would like to offer Mr. David Watts the once in a lifetime opportunity to be shot from a cannon over men and horses, hoops and garters and lastly through a hogshead of real fire!

And there's more! As a bonus, we will be taking nominations for up to five other esteemed ambassadors to follow Mr. Watts into the Cannon Of Thrills!

And as a show of our gratitude, we would like to offer Mr. David Watts the once in a lifetime opportunity to be shot from a cannon over men and horses, hoops and garters and lastly through a hogshead of real fire!Will Henry the Horse be dancing the waltz?

Will Henry the Horse be dancing the waltz?
Of course Henry The Horse dances the waltz!

"I volunteer Senator Horatio Stupid er Sulla," answered a very sticky Director Oltavi, "Tis proper for capitalists to be shot out of the cannons into fiery hogsheads!"

"Wooowooooowooooowoooooo!!!!!", yelled a small troop of Jagermonsters as they ran into the Festering Snakepit. They were carrying some boxes, as they made thier mad dash to the Palentine delegation.

Hot zoup comink troogh!!! Outa da vay! Vats da matta vith ya! Ya Deff or sometink!", the lead Jager yelled as he pushed his way through the throngs. once inside the delegation they opened the boxes, which were full of pies.

Now Jagermonsters are an enthusiastic lot. Normally they prefer heavy weapons to commit their carnage. However deep in the Jagermonster pscyche is a primevel urge that, if given the chance, will bubble to the surface....Jagermonsters love to play Pie in the Face(TM).

"Hookay! Who do ve hit first, boss?", one Jager inquired of Sulla.

"Fire at will boys! fire at will!", ordered the pie splattered yet very unwholesome senator.

"Vich vun ist vill?", the enthused Jagermonster asked, slightly puzzled.

At this point a meat pie thrown by Irina, of the Altan Steppes, hit thejager squarely upside the head, knocking off his hat. Stooping to pick it up and place it backon his head the Jager muttered,

"Any plan vere ya lose your hat ist bad plan!"

Then he hurled a pie at the quick and agile Irina, while the other Jagers enthusiasticly participated in the custardly mayhem..

This act will ruin any protective tariff that nations maintain save in times of emergency. I highly recommend that every WA Member or Delegate vote against it in favor of a weaker version.

The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP
World Assembly Delegate to these United Kingdoms of Britain
Royal Ambassador to The British Empire from the United Kingdom of Britain
Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George
Archduke in the Grand Duchy of Royal British America
Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom of Britain

This act will ruin any protective tariff that nations maintain save in times of emergency.
Yes it will. Tariffs are poor economic policy and should only be used in times of emergency.

*hits The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP in the face with a Rhubarb pie*

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

I'm doing rather well at this snipering, Irina thought. Some of her relatives had been Akamian insurgents, back in the day, and the lessons they had taught her were coming back to the fore. She managed to dodge the blueberry pie tossed at her by the Cookeslandic ambassador and then ducked to avoid the mutton pie tossed at her by Cerys. She fired off two more belyash at her assailants like a cannon, and then tried to run around to assault the Korintari. "We passed anti-terror legislation! No WMD pies!" she shouted, trying to jump over a table to launch her attack.

Unfortunately, she didn't see the Palentine Jagermonster launch his pie. It caught her full in the face, sending Irina sprawling off the table. Belyash flew everywhere as she lost control of her ammo.

The sight of their junior ambassador flying unceremoniously through the air managed to get the other Altani to notice something other than the Thessadorian Ambassador's jiggling assets. From their table, they began pelting the Jagermonsters with old meat pies, while Irina hastily scuttled behind the table, trying to retrieve her scattered ammo.

Quote:
Originally Posted by Royal British America View Post
This act will ruin any protective tariff that nations maintain save in times of emergency.
Yes it will. Tariffs are poor economic policy and should only be used in times of emergency.

*hits The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP in the face with a Rhubarb pie*

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Yes. They are poor economic policy. Let's take a look at every nation that had tariffs, before and after. Before, economically sound, after, financial meltdown. CIP the USA.

As to you hitting me with pie, that is hardly the behavior of a gentlemen/lady. How dare you act in such a way to a respectable member, indeed: nobility, an Ambassador, a Governor, a Delegate, and a senior Member of Parliament who has held multiple Cabinet postings. I hope everybody else sees what is going on here. This is a respectable conversation resorting to violence common to the Southern Senator Sumptner's attacks on a proponent of the abolitionist movement. It is intolerable.

The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP
World Assembly Delegate to these United Kingdoms of Britain
Royal Ambassador to The British Empire from the United Kingdom of Britain
Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George
Archduke in the Grand Duchy of Royal British America
Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom of Britain

Honorouble Mr. Peter Thompson representing People's Republic of Jacuba walks in and proclaims :

People of Jacuba refuses to sign this treaty as it will damage our already poor economy.

in lower voice

But we are open to suggestions ;)

Pass the ale :D

The people of the United Socialist States of Socialenasia are elated in proclaiming their strong support for more global integration and more global convergence. The time has come to open up boundaries and cherish the ideals of world citizenship on a united earth. We recognise the importance and success of free trade to third world countries in improving their economical standing.

Signed
The people of the United Socialist States of Socialenasia

Riley takes another leisurely drink from his cup before speaking respectfully, with just hint of amusement, into the microphone again. "The Right Honourable Gentleman representing the United Kingdoms of Britain is duly, if belatedly, advised that the standard of conduct here is somewhat... different from that we of more... formal bureaucracies would expect in our own lands. With all possible respect and goodwill, I recommend you seek reassignment from your government if you feel you can't adjust. And my sincerest regrets that you were not properly briefed on what to expect when you were sent here."

CIP the USA.
The USA? Do you mean the United States of America? I don't believe such a nation exists in NationStates. Now, New Leicestershire exists in another dimension, on another timeline. In our timeline there certainly is a United States. They are, in fact, New Leicestershire's largest trading partner and we are more or less joined at the hip with them economically. That United States has certainly not suffered a financial meltdown since adopting free trade policies. In fact they have prospered as no nation on earth ever has.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

OOC: The RL United States doesn't exist in Nationstates and any facts, figures or data you have relating to it are irrelevant here.

Oh great idea. Except for the part about it being mandatory...
shouldn't it be free to do or not?

As to you hitting me with pie, that is hardly the behavior of a gentlemen/lady. How dare you act in such a way to a respectable member, indeed: nobility, an Ambassador, a Governor, a Delegate, and a senior Member of Parliament who has held multiple Cabinet postings. I hope everybody else sees what is going on here. This is a respectable conversation resorting to violence common to the Southern Senator Sumptner's attacks on a proponent of the abolitionist movement. It is intolerable.

The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP


*Sara Mavenu scurries over, crouching due to the flying food*

*shoves Lawrence down*

Pies don't care who they hit. Just stay down, we are able to hear you just as well hiding as compared to standing up. Hopefully we won't be seeing the machine that does the defenestrations in play today.

*tries to head back to her desk, but a barrage of pies flies by*

Oh great idea. Except for the part about it being mandatory...
shouldn't it be free to do or not?
OOC: All resolutions are mandatory, they can't be optional. That's just the way the game works.

*starts typing into palm sized computer* "defenestrations are easy to cause provided that you match the frequencies.* Currently my computer is set so Mr. Watts will defenester himself as will Sulla as they share a frequency.* Usually this does not happen, even in two people sharing half a brain, thus this shall be fun," said Dir. Oltavi. *Sulla and Watts drop pies and proceed, zombie-like, towards the windows of the festering snakepit.*

*starts typing into palm sized computer* "defenestrations are easy to cause provided that you match the frequencies.* Currently my computer is set so Mr. Watts will defenester himself as will Sulla as they share a frequency.* Usually this does not happen, even in two people sharing half a brain, thus this shall be fun," said Dir. Oltavi. *Sulla and Watts drop pies and proceed, zombie-like, towards the windows of the festering snakepit.*

*Bob calmly walks over to the Korintar delegation and one by one stuffs them all into the Defenestrator v2*

"FIRE IN THE HOLE!" Bob calls out as he pulls the lever launching the entire Korintar delegation through the window and into the Vastiva memorial reflecting pool. "Oops, I forgot to open the window first. No use crying over broken glass, I guess I can expect a bill for the window from the building management."

Hey join the Britannionia region... please

Hey join the Britannionia region... please
Hey stop posting region ads in the WA forum...please.

T'blis Oltavi, knuckles clenched snow white, growled, "That !@#^ing idiot, time to #$&* his head." "That Bob will be lucky if you get to him first, for I will beat his $%% to a bloody pulp," bellowed Zakir Sezadu. "The Flibbelites had better remember that Tartarus hath no fury like a defenestered woman," declared Gen. Cheri Konstado as she ripped the glass shards out of her, now crimson, eyes. Thus the Korintari delegation reentered the festering snakepit with barbed wire bats, chains, sledgehammers, ladders, chairs, crates of thumbtacks, handcuffs, and ductape. "Let's defenester these fools proper," they declared, then broke out into We're not gonna take it, Blood on the Risers (uncensored/obscene version, and I don't wanna stop.

OOC: sorry for double post
IC:*Oltavi enters neurofrequencies for Bob* "Let's see here, right-wingers equate to Jello, even amongst the brightest, such as Mr. Watts. Bob clearly is less than Jello, so I might have a little difficulty for the furniture would defenester themselves *demoniac laughter*," says Dir. Oltavi.

I have been directed by my regions vote to vote AGAINST this resolution.

Yes, Riley, clearly. The ways of the civilized nations fall short here. Civilized discussion apparently takes a back seat.

I address all Delegates, Members, and listeners in this. An economy without tariffs will collapse. It has happened before, and will happen again. If I am pressed for example, then I will state that 'Such an economic thing does not exist in NS 1. Economic legislation is tactless, as it cannot be done or implemented in any way. One questions the necessity of this bill...'

While I accept that the gentlemanly ways of the more formal nations is not the way here, I will not stoop to a low level to make myself heard. I accept it, but do not act in it. Vulgarity is all well and fine for most people, but when a more dignified level is reached, there must be gentleman/ladies in charge. (It's funny: as I am writing this, I am listening to some classical Bach played in the movie The Patriot)

Let us not forget, ladies and gentlemen, that we represent the head of the Diplomatic Corps of our respective regions. We are the region's face to the world. Barbarity is not what my region promotes, therefore I shall not be barbaric. Take note that I have been promoted to the leader of my party. Why would this have been done if I did not accurately portray the ideas and actions of certainly my party, but also my nation, as I can become Prime Minister?

Sincerely,

The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP
World Assembly Delegate to these United Kingdoms of Britain
Loyal Opposition Leader of the Liberal Democrat Party of the United Kingdom of Britain
Royal Ambassador to The British Empire from the United Kingdom of Britain
Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George
Archduke in the Grand Duchy of Royal British America
Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom of Britain

my region is still sorting out a forum so we can decide on these resolutions. lol
before i became WA delegate i voted for this resolution though and that is how it currently stands.

and i agree with what Royal British america has said we should conduct ourselves in a more civilised manor. We are delegates to our regions and we must represent them like we will represent ourselves in any situation we must represent ourselves as calm, respectable and generous human beings.

An economy without tariffs will collapse.
Well that is a very sweeping statement.

Why? Why should such a thing happen? Tariffs only serve to line the coffers of the Treasury. Further they stifle competition and innovation. So how can you state as fact that "an economy without tariffs will collapse"? Do you teach that in your schools, that the tariff is the central pillar propping up the entire free market system?

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

Thank you Stonham Aspall.

No. However, if you have ever read the works done by RL Alexander Hamilton, you will see. Tariffs serve as the line of defense against cheap goods flooding the market and destroying the native products. RL USA has been destroyed by RL China's cheap goods because there is too small of a tariff. While some debt must be maintained to keep from over-spending, too much, which is what would be caused by the lack of tariffs, would cause collapse in bankruptcy.

The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP
World Assembly Delegate to these United Kingdoms of Britain
Loyal Opposition Leader of the Liberal Democrat Party of the United Kingdom of Britain
Royal Ambassador to The British Empire from the United Kingdom of Britain
Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George
Archduke in the Grand Duchy of Royal British America
Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom of Britain

that is what is happening all over the world my friend. we in britain do not buy british coal we buy coal from france and the usa. That is because it is cheaper to buy the coal than it is to manufacture it. But when margaret thatcher decided to shut down the coal mines, the nation was plagued by riots and protests.

the only people who can stop economic breakdown are purselves and our leaders.

and now realising what i have done i am going to withdraw my vote and vote against this economic union. Because this is like another European union where jobs will be lost to foreigners and millions of pounds will also be lost because of new trade laws.

I cannot support such things as this.

The EU has been very good to the UK. Liverpool, Sheffield, Newcastle would all be in wretched poverty, were it not for the benefits the EU brought. The fact that the UK's traditional industrial decline started to happen shortly after we joined the EU was mere coincidence.

As such, the results as seen in my hypothetical "European Union" simulation have led me to believe that this a good thing and will surely benefit my nation and hopefully others as well.

No. However, if you have ever read the works done by RL Alexander Hamilton, you will see. Tariffs serve as the line of defense against cheap goods flooding the market and destroying the native products. RL USA has been destroyed by RL China's cheap goods because there is too small of a tariff. While some debt must be maintained to keep from over-spending, too much, which is what would be caused by the lack of tariffs, would cause collapse in bankruptcy.

The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP
World Assembly Delegate to these United Kingdoms of Britain
Loyal Opposition Leader of the Liberal Democrat Party of the United Kingdom of Britain
Royal Ambassador to The British Empire from the United Kingdom of Britain
Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George
Archduke in the Grand Duchy of Royal British America
Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom of Britain

that is what is happening all over the world my friend. we in britain do not buy british coal we buy coal from france and the usa. That is because it is cheaper to buy the coal than it is to manufacture it. But when margaret thatcher decided to shut down the coal mines, the nation was plagued by riots and protests.

the only people who can stop economic breakdown are purselves and our leaders.

and now realising what i have done i am going to withdraw my vote and vote against this economic union. Because this is like another European union where jobs will be lost to foreigners and millions of pounds will also be lost because of new trade laws.

I cannot support such things as this.

David Watts turns to a nearby aide.

"These imbeciles persist in babbling on about the mythical world of RL. This calls for drastic measures, get me the Secretary of State for Defence on the line."

After a short converstaion with New Leicestershire's Secretary of State for Defence, David Watts hangs up the phone and turns to his staff.

"This should be fairly dramatic. I suggest we all don our wet weather gear and possibly...hide under the desks."

High above the World Assembly Building, an Avro Vulcan B.3 of the RNLAF begins its bombing run.

Moments later, twenty-one 454 kg general purpose Black Buns crash through the ceiling of the WA, covering all present with a sticky mixture of raisins, currants and almonds.

Hearing the words of the RBA delegation leader, T'blis Oltavi wept, "We have acted like children comrades; we are supposedly a civilised democracy, but we have failed to live up to our ideals. We still oppose this resolution for it should be recognized that some states regard corporations as persons and we fear that, given too much freedom, these heirarchical, dictatorial entities would try to act as states to foment revolutions in nations as it serves their interests. This must be recognized, for early in Korintar's history, a multinational, in accordance with trade agreements, set up shop in Korintar. It was not too long before they turned it into a privately run military junta. The people rose up against their oppressors and expelled the swine, thus reviving our democracy. We fear that business will use such a resolution to evade taxes as well as enviromental and workers' rights laws by possibly taking their factories to non WA members or to those members whose laws are more permissive. This will lead to job loss for many nations, great debt for others, and overall destruction for still others. This is why we oppose this resolution. Unless strict safeguards, such as a definition of corporate treason, or a declaration that corporations are mere contracts that can be declared illegal or void by the state, not individuals with rights, we cannot, and will never support this resolution."
*after bombing*
"I've had it! WAHQ Security, please escort Mr. Watts out of this facility immediately!" shouted Sr. Dir. Salazar. Then a group of twenty five grim-faced young males of various species- heavily armed, approached David Watts. A bear-like creature said,"Mr. Watts either leave the premises peaceably, no more bombings nor pie throwings, or we will have no choice but to forcibly expell you from this building."

i respect your view.

And newcastle, liverpool and sheffield would not have needed to have been in poverty if margaret thatcher had not closed down the mines. Which was in a way encouraged by the EU because france and germany could not meet british coal productivity and so when british coal mines were shut down in EU minds that was the price we british people had to pay for the chance of fairer trade. And that has not happened when you compare how much benefits germany, France and Spain get and we suffered a higher price

i respect your view.


As I yours.


And newcastle, liverpool and sheffield would not have needed to have been in poverty if margaret thatcher had not closed down the mines.

Problem is, those mines weren't productive. Eventually, they would have run out of coal. The mines should have been closed down, but a lot more gradually, and with a lot more social support to help the communities find replacement industries, rather than Thatcher just leaving the miners to fester in poverty.

Which was in a way encouraged by the EU because france and germany could not meet british coal productivity and so when british coal mines were shut down in EU minds that was the price we british people had to pay for the chance of fairer trade. And that has not happened when you compare how much benefits germany, France and Spain get and we suffered a higher price
That's because they either had more deposits, or mined it a lot slower. France gets most of it's energy from nuclear power, so it doesn't have a need for the coal it digs up. Again, Thatcher should have invested in wind/wave/tide technology to replace coal, but the Anglo-Saxon economics thought it cheaper to become dependent on EU coal then to *shock horror* invest in new technologies.

i like the *shock horror*

yes you are right i have got to admit on we should have invested more money to alternative fuels.

But another point i wish to raise about this economic union. Don't you want a slice of independency? I do and if i had one sector i could have that in it would defienelty be economics.

And once again i respect your view

The delegate of the PR of Jacuba stands up and starts shouting:

Tariffs are good,whitout tariffs a goverment can't protect its developing industry.

This Resolution would only make those rich even richer and destroy the fledgling economies of the poor.

Independence is what this resolution is going to destroy.

As did the EU with britain. I urge you all to vote against this and consider the benefits from this. With less or no Tariffs our economies could collapse.

and i agree with what Royal British america has said we should conduct ourselves in a more civilised manor. We are delegates to our regions and we must represent them like we will represent ourselves in any situation we must represent ourselves as calm, respectable and generous human beings.


With all due respect, you really ought to do some background checks on regions that have delegates here. If you had, then you would soon realize that this is pretty much normal behavior.:tongue: Don't make me turn the dolphins loose on you.

Excelsior,
Sen. Horatio Sulla

<hurls a custard pie at the representative from Stonham Aspall>


"I've had it! WAHQ Security, please escort Mr. Watts out of this facility immediately!" shouted Sr. Dir. Salazar. Then a group of twenty five grim-faced young males of various species- heavily armed, approached David Watts. A bear-like creature said,"Mr. Watts either leave the premises peaceably, no more bombings nor pie throwings, or we will have no choice but to forcibly expell you from this building."

At this point another somewhat larger group of Jagermonsters runs into the assembly. They had heard about the Pie fight, and came running to participate. Jagers really enjoy a good pie fight. Unfortunately they stopped when they say the group of commies accosting Mr. Watts. More than a pie fight Jagers love a good scrap. with their strength, endurance, total lack of common sense, and almost unkillability, Jagermonsters make good shock troops. They quickly sprang into action and surrounded the commies. The commander of the group( he has a much more flamboyant hat than the other Jagers), spoke up,

"Hello Dalingk! I doo believe ve've gots ya zurrounded! Leef ze nize man aloze zo ve cans play! Or elze, me und ze boyz might get nasty!"

(Director Emeritus Zakir Myosin Sezadu III on behalf of Korintari delegation) "We cannot believe how barbaric we have acted as representatives of Trilateral Union. That said we request the Sen. Horatio Sulla be expelled as well, immediately!" *armed guards appear to defenester Sulla from the 528th story windows just as Watts was recently*

(Director Emeritus Zakir Myosin Sezadu III on behalf of Korintari delegation) "We cannot believe how barbaric we have acted as representatives of Trilateral Union. That said we request the Sen. Horatio Sulla be expelled as well, immediately!" *armed guards appear to defenester Sulla from the 528th story windows just as Watts was recently*


Being a former Marine, Sulla kicks one of the commie bastards in the nuts. Said commie clutches himself and curls up in a fetal position, thus halting the procession.
"Damned pussy! He'd never last boot camp!", Sulla thought while looking down at the groaning man.

"Get your hands off of me ya bloody poofters!" Sulla yells at the commies, as he shrugs out of their grasp.

He gives then a pugnatious and dangerouos look, before continuing,
"Bloody amateur idiots, you couldn'd defenestrate anyone even if you held the window in your hands. Time for a real damn man to show you how its done, you bloody jagoffs!"

With that, the good but unwholesome senator runs towards a window.

"Hasta la vista, baby!" he yells as he crashes throught the window. As he falls he performs a perfect triple lindy, before landing in the waters of the Vastia Memorial Reflecting Pool"

OOC: Stop Godmodding or I'm going to use some of my patented Barbaric Militant Machismo(TM) on you! I'm only going to tell you this once.

I see that my mere summation of why I shall not be barbaric have really caused some shock waves. Interesting... Furthermore, even the defenestration, however humorous it may be, represents the same barbarity that we have been speaking out against. Civilized nations respect their peers, however incorrect they may be...

This act will probably pass. I therefore propose that those against it begin talks of repealing it...

The Right Honorable Lawrence J. C. Cornwallis CMG, MP
World Assembly Delegate to these United Kingdoms of Britain
Loyal Opposition Leader of the Liberal Democrat Party of the United Kingdom of Britain
Royal Ambassador to The British Empire from the United Kingdom of Britain
Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George
Archduke in the Grand Duchy of Royal British America
Member of Parliament of the United Kingdom of Britain

In the Name of the Eternal Kawaii, may the Cute One be praised

We are yet undecided on this issue, pending an explanation of Article 6:

6. AFFIRMS the right of nations to impose regulations, including embargoes, for cultural, safety, environmental, human rights, ethical or other reasons, on goods and services and their manufacture, subject to WATC approval;

We are hesitant to support a proposal that gives a foreign body the authority to approve or disapprove Kawaiian regulations on the import or export of goods on the basis of cultural grounds. For example, what training in the Jihi Code (http://www.nswiki.net/index.php?title=The_Jihi_Code), would some WA bureaucrat have to enable them to recognize that our embargo on Fine Yeldan Cheese (tm) stems from proper cultural concerns?

OOC: sorry for double post
IC:*Oltavi enters neurofrequencies for Bob* "Let's see here, right-wingers equate to Jello, even amongst the brightest, such as Mr. Watts. Bob clearly is less than Jello, so I might have a little difficulty for the furniture would defenester themselves *demoniac laughter*," says Dir. Oltavi.Bob rolls up his sleeve and holds up his left wrist. "See this," he says pointing at what looks like an oversized watch, "This is my personal I.G.N.O.R.E. Shield. As long as I have this, your little toy has no effect on me."

and i agree with what Royal British america has said we should conduct ourselves in a more civilised manor. We are delegates to our regions and we must represent them like we will represent ourselves in any situation we must represent ourselves as calm, respectable and generous human beings.

"Calm, respectable and generous human beings? You must be new here."

Bob Flibble
WA Representative

(Director Emeritus Zakir Myosin Sezadu III on behalf of Korintari delegation) "We cannot believe how barbaric we have acted as representatives of Trilateral Union. That said we request the Sen. Horatio Sulla be expelled as well, immediately!" *armed guards appear to defenester Sulla from the 528th story windows just as Watts was recently*

At that moment William Smithers the WA Building Management's Senior VP walked into the General Assembly. Following him were Patrick O'Neil, the Head of the Maintence of Order Department, and 30 Maintence of Order Department Squads. "HOLD IT! First off, there's no way anyone can be defenestrated from a 528th story window. Hell, there aren't even that many floors in the building.

Secondly, I don't know where you're getting these "building security" people, but I can tell you for a fact that they are not official WA Building security personnel. Now, Mr. O'Neil, would you and your men kindly escort these imposters from the building?"

"With pleasure. Before we do that I will warn them that the General Assembly hall is equipped with the finest ACME Weapon Nullifiers on the market. As a result, your weapons are useless. Our weapons on the other hand, are equipped with ACME Weapon Nullifier Nullifiers and are fully functional. To put it simply, resistance is futile."

so whom will benifit from this free trade and free export the ones who have more to gain than the common man those with power and those with assets if all dooors are open then the flies will get in and feed on those as yet not able to wholely stand alone restrictions must be in place and be held those who will try and underhand any means for profit at anothers loss will be marked i cannot allow my vote on this issue to be passed for its external just and good cause as the ugly inside shall rear its head soon enough has no one learnt of the demorcratic disasters and the communistic cataclismic failiures yet greed is not good yet!
as the true voice of my dominion i speak for all and say NO!

"We will restrain from further actions; we most sincerely promise," responds Emeritus Sezadu,"right Oltavi, Salazar, and Konstado?"
"Meh," grumbles Oltavi,"I guess Salazar and I have to remain here though."
"NO!" shouts Zakir Sezadu in his most commanding voice,"I have more authority in this domain than the rest of you put together. It is obvious that this has gotten way out of hand, so leave... before I personally kick your rear ends all the way back to Korintar!" *rest of Korintari delegation flees in terror*
"Comrades, members of the Assembly, on behalf of all the nations that caused the earlier debacles, I beg forgiveness, it has clearly gotten out of hand. We have deactivated all our weapons so there should be no more problems...unless the Korintari Security Director is crazy enough to stick around and wreak her vengeance on Sen. Sulla, who from the looks of things she could beat up if she so desired. But hopefully that does not happen or I will have to take control of the Korintari Directory, personally."

This act will probably pass. I therefore propose that those against it begin talks of repealing it...

We second this proposal. This act is a heinous violation of national sovereignty and a classic example of the WA sticking its nose where it doesn't belong. Scotchpinestan will wholeheartedly support a repeal.

We second this proposal. This act is a heinous violation of national sovereignty and a classic example of the WA sticking its nose where it doesn't belong. Scotchpinestan will wholeheartedly support a repeal.Interesting how your views on "sovereignty" change when we pass a resolution to give nations the right to possess nuclear weapons.

IC: "The motion to open the floor to discussion of repeal has been seconded. Are those opposed to this resolution prepared to discuss the repeal and its contents, if so say Aye," requests Director Emeritus Zakir Sezadu.

OOC: so anyone interested in drafting a repeal can create a thread if they so desire. This thread, I do not believe is the proper place to discuss this matter. I will exercise more restraint in my IC actions from now on. I agree with others here that substantive argument was severely impaired...it (the pie war and various associated activities) should NEVER had happened.

We second this proposal..

And I give it a third, I will support a repeal of this act. Also If more people were voting I wonder if this really would be passing.



-Regional Delegate for La Mafia

OOC: For once, I do agree with the people saying it'd be nice if the debate had been a bit more civil and a bit less silly. While I like the fun RPing aspect of the WA, I really don't think it should completely subsume policy discussion. But allow me to venture an opinion as to why the debate became, literally, a circus so quickly: the opposition has not mounted any serious argument of their own. One or two lines bleating about how tariffs are good does not really make a serious intellectual challenge to an in-depth proposal that endured months - months - of drafting.

I have seen none of the opponents seriously deconstruct the proposal, or offer a worked example of why this proposal would be detrimental to their nation, or provide a rejoinder to - and I say this as someone who's taken part in antiglobalisation protests - the absolute orthodoxy of free trade among established economists. (A liberal like Paul Krugman identifies free trade and green taxes as the two paradigmatic goods pretty much all economists agree on.)

If you want to be taken seriously and have your comments treated with a bit more than a pie in the face or a honk of the clown's horn, why not articulate a more nuanced critique? Until you've established that you have a legitimate grievance, 'we don't like free trade' doesn't really cut it.

Samantha Benson steps carefully through the gungy mess on the WA floor, eager to avoid soiling her stylish new Quonverses with the assorted mixture of custard pie residue and flattened sultanas.

"I rise to cast the 49 votes of the Green and Pleasant Dominion of Wysteria IN FAVOUR of the present resolution, by a regional vote of 4 to 3 with 1 abstention.

"Nonetheless, regional discussions have revealed a disagreement on how the resolution is to be implemented, and although I am aware our colleagues from New Illuve have already stated their case here, I do not believe they were given a fair hearing, and thus would appreciate a response from the sponsor or someone confident in their ability to speak for them.

"It is my belief that, should this proposal pass, it will have no immediate effect UNTIL the first WATC round. That is, until that first round is convened, all current laws and trade barriers remain applicable. In the example disputed in regional discussions, a nation could prohibit the import of heroin.

"The counterpoint to this view holds that all trade barriers - including a ban on heroin - would have to removed instantly, and could only be reinstated on the approval of the WATC.

"Which is it?"

-- Samantha Benson
Congressional Liaison, Office of WA Affairs
Quintessence of Dust, Delegate of Wysteria

"Well, this proposal has certainly improved our access to foreign foodstuffs," Borrin said to one of his staff as he carefully explored an "unexploded" Sussex Pond Pudding that had landed on his desk. (OOC: Now that's a pudding that I haven't had for FAR too long...)


The doors of the World Assembly burst open and in comes a marching band playing Entrance of The Gladiators (http://www.imeem.com/bertramgoh/music/VofRU5W5/tokyo_kosei_wind_orchestra_entrance_of_the_gladiators/), followed by elephants, lions, tigers, dancing bears, jugglers, fire-eaters, clowns and little dogs.

"Ah, the 'Snowflower Glade Swans", I wondered where they had got to nowadays... and apparently Behrnum & Bahrlee's Circus is looking for them, with a job offer, too." (He turns to face one of his aides) "Urra, wait until they're free and then go and tell them that their country's ambassador here requests a word."


He sighs, leaning back in his chair and examining the ceiling. "Let's be honest, though; we could go back and forth like this forever. The point is, since there is, at least in my opinion, no definitive and universal answer to the question of free trade, we oughtn't impose it on our fellow nations in the World Assembly any more than Trasnia ought to impose it on the other states in the Xanthalian Federation. My country's motto is 'Unity Through Respect,' not 'Unity Through Assimilation.' I think the same ought to apply to the WA."

"H'rrm," Borrin enquires, "but couldn't the same argument be used against just about every proposal that gets raised here? My own nation's government certainly holds a 'Sovereigntist' position with regards to internal matters, but what's the point of joining an international organisation like this if you're going to refuse discussion on matters that genuinely concern international interactions too?"

and i agree with what Royal British america has said we should conduct ourselves in a more civilised manor. We are delegates to our regions and we must represent them like we will represent ourselves in any situation we must represent ourselves as calm, respectable and generous human beings.

"Have you overlooked the fact that some of us here are not 'human' beings?"



"I've had it! WAHQ Security, please escort Mr. Watts out of this facility immediately!" shouted Sr. Dir. Salazar. Then a group of twenty five grim-faced young males of various species- heavily armed, approached David Watts. A bear-like creature said,"Mr. Watts either leave the premises peaceably, no more bombings nor pie throwings, or we will have no choice but to forcibly expell you from this building."


"I recognise that Ursine over there, he's Ivarr o Thuleann of Darkdale who's wanted for involvement in Piracy!" exclaimed the BA Mission's 'legal attache', a 'Hwa' (i.e. anthropomorphic Giant Panda) by the name of 'Hau Yu'. "Heyha, 'Building Security', I call on you please to detain him pending the arrival of an extradition request!"


Seeing that some degree of order has now been restored in the chamber, Borrin o Redwood rise to his feet and addresses the assembled diplomats:
"Ladies and gentlemen, and others, my own nation formerly allowed tariffs on trade even between separate Clans of our own people, but since we abolished that right our economy has thrived. Consequently, I have cast my government's vote FOR this proposal and encourage the rest of you to support it as well."

"Though free trade can lead to cheaper goods and services, said products of labour are often of a more shoddy quality. It has been often witnessed that countries that try to preserve the health of their citizens through strict environmental laws lose jobs to countries where those do not exist, thus free trades' effect on an unhealthy environment it to exacerbate it. With an unhealthy environment, the citizens of the nation, and sometimes those surrounding it, are more likely to get sick, thus increasing healthcare costs at the expense of being able to obtain luxuries, thus lowering the quality of life. Our other concern is that this resolution, barring protectionist measures, will result in a "brain drain" in developing nations. The well educated, and oftentimes wealthy, will take their skills and capital to nations that can afford to pay them higher than their homelands could. Without this local skill and capital, the nation cannot develop its own native industries. Foreign corporations exploit this fact to line their pockets, and destroy the possibility of truly homegrown industry, which is essential if the positive effects of free trade are to be sustainable over the long term," with this Emeritus Sezadu sat down with a squish as he soon recognized he was sitting on a blueberry pie, "On a side note, I did not realize those individuals were not building security; I sincerely apologize for any trouble they caused. Furthermore, realizing they are criminals, I do hope they are prosecuted to the full extent of the law."

our embargo on Fine Yeldan Cheese (tm)
Why do you have an embargo on Yeldan cheeses? That's some very good cheese.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

"It is my belief that, should this proposal pass, it will have no immediate effect UNTIL the first WATC round. That is, until that first round is convened, all current laws and trade barriers remain applicable. In the example disputed in regional discussions, a nation could prohibit the import of heroin.

"The counterpoint to this view holds that all trade barriers - including a ban on heroin - would have to removed instantly, and could only be reinstated on the approval of the WATC.

"Which is it?"

-- Samantha Benson
Congressional Liaison, Office of WA Affairs
Quintessence of Dust, Delegate of Wysteria

You are correct Ms. Benson. Any current trade policies, restrictions, tariffs, etc. would remain in place until the WATC has convened and concluded its first round. Changes would begin to take effect at that point.

David Watts
Ambassador
The Dominion of New Leicestershire

OOC: That's the RP version. We can assume that since Article 3 calls for "a process for the gradual elimination of protectionist devices" it will be just that, a gradual process. The first changes to national trade policies will occur after the first WATC round, further changes after the next round, and so on.

The gameplay version is of course more sudden. Compliance is mandatory, game stats change immediatly and all that..

The Government of the Emperor of Urgench must offer its sincerest congratulations to the esteemed and respected delegation of New Leicestershire. Their work will doubtless inaugurate a new era of economic stability and prosperity for the World Assembly.

Yours,

"...couldn't the same argument be used against just about every proposal that gets raised here? My own nation's government certainly holds a 'Sovereigntist' position with regards to internal matters, but what's the point of joining an international organisation like this if you're going to refuse discussion on matters that genuinely concern international interactions too?"
Riley looks indignant. "I hardly see how I could be said to have refused discussion. I had a rather lengthy discussion with other contributors up to that point. The back-and-forth has to end eventually, though. I chose what seemed a good time. And I would hardly call my voting record sovereigntist, Ambassador. Of the resolutions that have reached quorum, I've supported more than I've opposed, and as the agent of the Delegacy of SPACE, I have been very diligent in approving what I believed to be worthy proposals, whether solicited to do so or not. I voted against this resolution because I believe it is bad policy. If you had actually read the arguments I made in the discussion you seem to have neglected to notice, perhaps you would have seen that."