Humanitarian League Daily Times (HL only please)

[Kingborough]

ECONOMIC TROUBLE ON HORIZON
Economic trouble is forecast for Kingborough, as Battlion hits a recession and the top businesses in the nation announce low half-year sales figures.

Top economists are forecasting trouble for the economy, following the announcement of a full-blown recession in Battlion, economic doom and gloom in Radiatia following the announcement of the end of the Radiatian governments attempt at pursuing free-trade policy, and the release of sales figures from Kingborough top businesses, all of which have fallen below their originally estimated half-year numbers.


The nations biggest five, the Serenely Barbecued Chicken Corporation, Principality Casino's, St Bernadette Tourism Industries, the First Car Corporation and Cymru Armaments have all announced record low sale figures at their recent half-yearly financial reviews.
The largest financial troubles have struck the First Car Corporation, which has cut almost a hundred jobs and halved its estimation of expected turnover in 2012, while Serenely Barbecued Chicken has also announced the loss of ten jobs and an estimated deficit of a million dollars by the end of the year.


The government has responded swiftly, pulling down the previous governments financial plan and throwing it out with the dish water - as the saying goes. At a press conference today Lady Marianne Coleburne, Captains Regent of Kingborough, outlined the changes that would be made, including;


• A visa-free travel zone to be established with all Humanitarian League nations.
• Income taxes to be slashed by at least 1%.
• Interest rates to be cut by half a percent.
• Education budget to be cut by 5%
• Arts & Culture budget to be slashed by 2%.
• Police budget to be slashed by 5%.
• Foreign aid budget to be cut in half.
• Defense budget to be cut by 1%.


The new People's Party government also announced that it plans on pursuing free trade agreements with some of Kingborough's closer neighbors, to "encourage economic recovery".

- The RBCK

[Millerainia]

MILLERAINIA JOINS HUMANITARIAN LEAGUE
AFTER END OF PREVIOUS ALLIANCE

Winter Garden Square

MARINETTE FALLS- After the fall of the Hanseatic League, the Millerainian government was looking for other options. In an emergency Parliament meeting, the Humanitarian League seemed to be favored in both the Senate and the Common House. The Majority parties, including the Liberty Party, the Conservative Party and the Old Millerainia Party all supported the joining of the HL. Minority leaders were more skeptical. Edward Sully, leader of the Green Party, claimed that "joining this faction is a waste of time and will hurt us even more, since many nations in this alliance have nuclear weapons." Similar thoughts were stated by the Millerainian Interests Party and the Life Party.

Prime Minister Grayson in an interview about Millerainia's admission to the Humanitarian League

But the bill "Join Humanitarian League Act" was put up for voting and passed in the Senate, (43-7) and the Common House (80-20) a few days after it was drafted. The bill was sent to the Executive Ministry, where it was approved by the Prime Minister.

Millerainia officially joined the Humanitarian League at ceremony at Winter Garden Square in the center of Marinette Falls. Prime Minister Daniel Grayson signed the Charter of the Humanitarian League and the festivities concluded with a parade and a concert from famous Millerainian artist, Keri Hilson. "This is a big step for Millerainia." Grayson said, "Millerainia now has a chance to make its mark on the world, showing what we are made of." he concluded in an interview later.

Millerainia's admission to the HL couldn't come at a better time. Entering into the HL, Millerainia has one of the most productive economies. With the fifth largest GDP, Imports and Exports, second largest GDP per Capita, and an economic rating of 97, Millerainia is a big player in the Humanitarian League economy. Millerainia is predicted to be a big part of the League. This is Millerainia's biggest chance to be in the global spotlight.

[Battlion]

Battlion Headlines
Foreign Secretary sacked over Radiatia Recognition!

Prime Minister Liam Asplen today sacked David Hoyles MP from his post as Foreign Secretary, this is following the comments from Mr Hoyle on the Radiatian President that led to the recognition of a chicken as the true President.

The Prime Minister has called for the President of Radiatia to meet with him over the issue to try "flatten out the surface" and try to retain normal relations with the nation, in a speech outside his official residence today he said this...

"Whilst I am saddenned by the comments of the Radiatian Prime Minister, I will not allow this conflict to continue any further. I have stayed out of these comments but as Prime Minister I am responsible for all that my government does and I admit we went wrong with allowing and not enforcing a party whip against the motion that was passed days ago.

It is with regret that I must remove David from his cabinet position, despite his lack of judgement in this case however he has assured me that he will still support the government in it's mission to trim the economy and will stay on as an MP and special advisor to the new Foreign Secretary who shall be decided within the coming days.

To the President of Radiatia and to the people, I apologise for any offence caused by the House of Commons however I call on you to now do the right thing and return these apologies."

David Hoyles MP

It is unknown how Radiatia will react to this apology and removal of Mr Hoyles from office however it is clear that the Prime Minister wants to stay on good terms with Radiatia despite this petty dispute. The House of Commons is to vote on removing the recognition of the Chicken President in the coming hours it is unknown how MP's will react to the news that the proposer of the original motion has been removed from office, it could lead in rebellion from Conservative backbenchers and a possible defeat on the motion or for Conservative backbenchers to pull their act together and follow the government in voting for the removal of the recognition.

Social Democrat Leader and Leader of the Opposition, Tom Smith has endorsed the move however said it showed a clear lack of control in Mr Asplen's government and that it was simply warmongering.

-BNNS

[Nui-ta]

OOC ATTN: Please read and follow. This is my IC closer response to the chicken incident. Long story short: Let Battlion and Radiatia handle it. I will post no more on the issue after this...and neither should anyone else.

---

Everyone Just Ignore It
Prime Minister Evan Isaci calls for HL to turn a blind eye to the "Chicken" incident


Prime Minister Isaci was clearly unhappy with the situation

It has been a long time since Nui-ta has seen Prime Minister Isaci angry enough to seethe quietly, but it was happening today for sure. At his elderly age, some people question if an outburst rather than a quiet statement of disappointment and ignorance was a health move so he wouldn't have an aneurism.

The Prime Minister was none-the-less very upset when he spoke out about the chicken incident and Nui-ta's reaction.

Which will be to put a diplomatic stance of ignorance towards the entire incident.

"I think everyone can agree with me when I say I am firmly disappointed that such immaturity rests within the governments of our allies. The fact of the matter is, however, that this incident strikes me as a child seeking too much attention. There comes a point when you just have to ignore it and let them have their tantrum."

"I only speak here at all because I have been pressed by the international community to give a statement as the head of government of the Humanitarian League Council of Internal Affairs. After long and hard deliberation, my government has decided to NOT recommend a meeting of the Internal Affairs Council. We do not recommend any action on the part of any other Humanitarian League governments."

"Nui-ta hereby refuses to have any part in this incident. We do not condemn Radiatia or Battlion because that would contradict our very actions."

"To the entirity of the league, I say just ignore it."

"To the Council of Internal Affairs, this isn't worth the time."

"And to the two nations in question here, all I ask is for my nation to be left out of it."

Evan Isaci refused any further comment on the matter. All cabinet ministers were attempted to be reached for a statement on the matter but were not available for comment, suggesting that Isaci has strictly warned them not to say anything on the matter.

His Highness Nicolai di-Amori was unavailable for comment as well.

--- HLDT

[Millerainia]

MILLERAINIA OPENS UP REGIONAL TRADE
TO ALL NATIONS IN HUMANITARIAN LEAGUE

MILLERSPORT-The Ministry of Economy and the Ministry of the Treasury jointly announced Millerainia's venture into regional economics with the opening up of trade between all Humanitarian Nations and Millerainia. Millerainia has entered the regional trade game at a crucial time. As regional stock markets continue to fall, Millerainia, who has stayed out of regional economics since it's admittance, has repealed the 'Economic Seclusion Act' in a joint-Parliament session. Millerainia hopes to turn around bad economies while staying strong themselves, but some experts are unsure. Dr. Philip D'Yonkers, an Economics professor at the University of Rockbend, projects that Millerainia will soon follow the rest of the region into an economic tailspin, and sees no good future for this. Some disagree, like Dr. Yolanda Peckoski, who believes that Millerainia can turn around the economic downturn by investing money in stock markets across the region. Time will tell.

Millerainian businesses including Traverse Travel, Winston-Hark Computers and Papyrus Book Publishing have all expressed interest in investing in foreign markets. Millerainia is also now exporting lumber and coal from the Land of the Land district of Millerainia. The Steel Industry has also been offered to the international market. Millerainia is now open to trading with all nations in the Humanitarian League.

[Detectatia]

EMMA DREW SWORN IN
MODERATES OFFICIALLY CLAIM THE PRESIDENTIAL MANOR

_{Emma Drew, now officially the 132nd President of Detectatia}

TRESTONE--Today, Emma Drew, the 132nd Detectatian President, and first female Detectatian President, took the Oath of Office today in accordance with Vox rules, just under a week after her election.

In her inaugural address just after her swearing-in, the now President Drew spoke of one major promise that she said "I feel I must make clear is a personal one in addition to a political one to the Detectatian public: while I was, and am, a Moderate, I hope this presidential term and Vox will be short-lived. Why? As I said on the campaign trail when the Reformist Party was formed, and I'll remind those who may have forgotten: I hope to be signing a bill that restructures and reforms our government. While I downplayed it initially, it has been something I've thought about since that very gray, Detectatian day. As I see the Reform coalition coming to be, I know more and more deeply that reform is an issue that while hopefully finally reach a boil after 304 years. And, while it may mean reelection, or even a loss of the presidency permanently, I hope that I will be the President, your President, to bring the people's will to fruition."

Some have said the President's words were, from the outset, an immediate political blunder. Professor Clayton Kapur of Energias University said: "While the President's address may, to some, have sounded like a promise to execute a deep and well-thought-out expression of the people's wants, I feel that it really just a kind of rhetorical political bandwagoning on what seems to be, as portrayed in the media, the popular opinion. This has the potential to be an overly divisive move as well, further dividing an already many-ways split populace into Reformers and non-Reformers. All in all, I would judge it as unwise."

However, June Roberrs, a Fellow at the Liblites Institue in Antidux praised the President's support, saying that "Indeed, our Instiute's nationwide polls have indicated not only a strong support for government reform-and-restructure, but also even stronger support for President Drew. If anything, I would say that this move is a symbiotically good move for both the Reform coalition, who, with no doubt in my mind, will gain much more support after this from Drew fans, but also for Drew, who will probably find strong allies in the Reform coalition, not to mention the Moderates, her party."

President Drew will request a joint session of the 152nd Vox to dissolve it tomorrow.

-DBN

[Radiatia]

YERKAL NATHUS ANNOUNCES RESIGNATION
CITES "MENTAL AND PHYSICAL EXHAUSTION" AS REASON

XERCONIA, FCT
Radiatian President Yerkal Nathus has announced that he intends to resign before the mid-term elections, citing mental and physical exhaution as reasons.

_{Yerkal Nathus has announced his resignation as President}

"My fellow Radiatians, it has been an honour to serve these 8 years as your head of state. However, the fact is that the office of President is nothing more than a glorified management position, and I can't be President forever, nor should I seek to.

"As such, given that I no longer feel confident that I am in the optimum condition required for this office I have decided that the time has come for me to pass the batton on to someone else.

"To say that this is an honour is an understatement. As someone who grew up in Polaris, it is beyond my wildest dreams to attain this office, and I hope that I have served you well."

The President has not yet named a successor, but is 'considering potential candidates'.

Nathus has announced that the next President will definitely be someone with a military background, preferably one of the higher ranked Commanders of the Armed Forces.

The current favourite to be the next President is Oleksiy Romanov, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. This is in line with parliament's proposed "National Security Act" which will make the President officially a 6-star general and bar non-military personnel from the office.

"The Commander-in-Chief of our Armed Forces needs to be someone who actually knows how to command an army," Said Nathus.

Critics of the National Security Act are calling it another step closer to Radiatia becoming a military dictatorship.

Other people being considered include former RSEF Brigadier Hiroshi Vodotel, and former Prime Minister Lena Toriah.

Vodotel was put into consideration after a personal request by Traiyan Silviu, who stated that "The fact that Hiroshi Vodotel isn't the Commander of our Armed Forces is an absolute travesty. He is by far the most elite soldier and military mind this country has to offer."

Lena Toriah, meanwhile, has been considered based on her military background and the close relationship professional she had with Nathus, who said that "She has all the right qualities for the top job."

Parliament have criticised him for considering Toriah.

Under constitutional convention, the President must name a successor to be confirmed by the Federal Council. If the Federal Council do not confirm a candidate with a unanimous vote, then an election is held and the role is determined by popular vote.

In other news, Soden Larssen has confirmed that he has accepted the apology of Battlion Prime Minister Liam Aspen, on behalf of the Battlion House of Commons, who voted to recognise a chicken as the Radiatian President.

"Liam's a good guy, and I think we can reset relations and continue working together as if this never happened," Said Larssen. "Our common interests far outweigh our differences and I am very grateful for this."

The Prime Minister then announced that diplomatic relations are to continue, and that hostilities are to end immediately.

President Yerkal Nathus has announced that, despite the Battlion House of Commons' approval, Chicken McChicken is not in the running to be the next President.

"Personally I think Chicken McChicken is more suited to the role of Prime Minister. He's clearly a populist."

- HLDT

[Kingborough]

SURPRISE ANNEXATION OF UNINHABITED LANDS

The newly drawn borders of the duchies of Kingborough.

Prince Iosac II has shocked the public by proclaiming Kingboroughian sovereignty over the entirety of the island of Marburran, including previously unclaimed areas.

Prince Iosac II has announced to the world that Kingborough now claims the previously uninhabited two thirds of the island of Marburran, in a move that has come as a surprise to both the public and to the greater international community.


At the same time the Prince has announced that the borders of the existing duchies will also be redrawn and three new duchies added, and the Office of the Prince has released new maps of the changes. A ten million dollar roll out plan will begin next month, to transition towns who have just changed duchies over to their new region and to begin moving volunteer colonists into the newly created duchies.


These three new duchies bring the total up to 10, and it has been estimated the elections for the new Dukes and Duchesses will take place within the next three months, as soon as a reasonable number of people have moved into the new regions.


Controversially Prince Iosac has said that for the time being the three new duchies won't have federal representation, "until their population warrants it" - however, according to a leading lawyer, because of a loophole in the law regarding duchies and their status this means that the new duchies won't have to comply with federal laws either.


These latest additions to Kingborough are Nieuw-Nederland, Novyi Rus and Khawdash Yisrael.

- The RBCK

[Detectatia]

PRESIDENT DISSOLVES 152ND VOX
LEGISLATORS GEAR UP FOR FORTHCOMING ELECTION

The Hall of the Senate, now empty, will be back in session in under a month.

TRESTONE--Today the newly inaugurated President Emma Drew fulfilled one of her oldest and traditional duties--the dissolving of the Senate and Assembly in a joint session of the Vox, held in the Senate chamber, the Hall of the Senate.

The famous motion for dissolution, one that cannot be moved except for the specifically planned dissolution, was moved by Senate Moderate leader Michael Glasse.

After the standard 15 minute electronic vote for all major motions (with Assemblymen voting at the rostrum), the Vox moved to dissolve by a vote of 584-0-0.

The President dissolved the 152nd Vox at 9:23 pm before an after party, hosted by Senator Glasse, began at the Teague Ballroom in downtown Trestone.

The 153rd Detectatian Vox is set to be elected in 3 weeks time.

-DBN

[Radiatia]

UFO SIGHTINGS IN SASKENYA
RFAF "CAN NEITHER CONFIRM NOR DENY" IF LEGITIMATE

KYUNUU, SASKENYA
Residents of Kyunuu, Saskenya have said that they saw an unidentified flying object, the second time in a month that such an observation has been reported in the area.

_{Factory worker Martin Simeonov believes he has photographed a UFO}

The sighting was witnessed by several people on the city's main street at around lunch time, including the city's police chief.

"It was this thing, shaped like a diamond, with green lights on the side." Said Police Chief Edmund Brozic. "It came just above the tops of buildings, directly over Main Street, just sweeping down. And then it left. It wasn't a plane or a helicoptor and I have never seen anything move that fast."

Mia Crewe, who was walking with her baby said she noticed something huge fly over here. "It wasn't an optical illusion. The thing was right there. I thought it was a plane about to crash, and then it went away."

Martin Simeonov, a factory worker, claims he managed to snap a picture of the object as it flew towards the city. "This is my second UFO sighting, and ever since the first time I always have my phone's camera on hand to get a picture. I want to prove that this is real."

Reports from across the city also include the detection of a sonic boom.

"Something definitely broke the sound barrier, and it wasn't one of our planes." Said Irvin Newman, an air traffic controller at Kyunuu Domestic Airport.

The RFAF - who have a base near the city - have stated that the sonic boom was caused by one of their fighter jets on a training exercise and that they did not detect anything unusual on their radars.

"Needless to say, I don't want to rule anything out," Said Group Commander Daniel Hopper. "I can't confirm or deny if there really was a UFO. I know some of the boys in the Group have seen some weird things out there. We all have. But we don't have any solid evidence for the sightings, so I'm afraid the skeptic in me wins this round."

Kyunuu is the state capital of Saskenya and has a population of around 90,000 people.

- UFO DAILY

[Battlion]

Battlion Headlines
Government announces House of Commons and Senate CUTS - Inquiry to wind down

The Government announced plans to eradicate over 1000 Politicians from the Battlion Parliament by the time of the next elections under borderline changes around seats, the House of Commons is to be slashed from 650 members to only 300 whilst the Senate is too face a 90% decrease from 1000 seats to a mere 100.

The plans have been set out in the governments Parliament Reform Bill which also includes the introduction of electronic voting to the Parliament and the introduction of a new Citizens Commission which was commended by the Inquiry into Monarchy Conduct as it starts to wind down its questioning and to prepare for a final report. The Citizens Commission will be made up of 15 Randomly selected citizens for yearly terms and they will scrutinise legislation further during the wait between Senate approval and Royal Assent, the Prime Minister said that the response of the commission should be what the Monarch goes by when choosing to accept or reject the proposal.

Tom Smith MP and Leader of the Opposition called the cuts in Parliament absolute loonacy and a way to rig elections in favour of the Conservatives by equaling out key seats that other parties win in and fusing them with areas where there are known safe conservative seats with large majorites, whilst he believes in Political reform he argued that the government was doing it wrong and was being completely incompetent over the issue.

Jonas Dein MP and Chair of the Monarchy Conduct Inquiry endorsed the actions by the government and showed it was "listening" to the inquiry and the recommendations of its delegates and promised a full and fair report and expected the government to implement whatever is recommended by the report, the Prime Minister agreed that the Inquiry has done its job and the government will extensively follow all its recommendations which are rumored to contain Judical Reform and Constitutional ammendment.

Back in Parliament however the Chair of the Senate has said to Battlion Headlines that he doesn't expect the bill to make it through the Senate...

"Senators won't be happy with this, we are having are right to scrutinise effectively taken away from us. The Inquiry into Monarchy Conduct is also expected to propose a radical change to this house including the reduction of appointed senators, as one of those senators I feel betrayed by the government and by the system that an inquiry looking into MONARCHY conduct isn't actively changing the Monarchy."

In the case that the bill doesn't get through the Senate then the House of Commons can force the bill through by expressing its Political dominance due it being fully elected the government can use the Writ of governed mandate to skip through the senate and sent for Royal assent where the Queen has already shown dislike to the bill and is expected to veto it. However with questions over what the inquiry is going to suggest and most conservatives suggesting full impeachment we could be facing the bill being delayed till a new Monarch comes into force.

The mood is changing in Parliament and the old House of Commons v Senate mood is starting to rise again...

-BNNS

[Detectatia]

REFORMIST PARTY MAKES A SPLASH
COALITION TAKES A SUPERMAJORITY

TRESTONE--For the first time in years, a supermajority in both houses of the Vox has occurred from an election.

While not a supermajority proper, one taken by a single party, the Reform coalition has, combined, taken 411 seats in the Senate, and 13 seats in the Assembly, a majority vote in both houses. Among the coalition, the Moderates took 187 seats in the Senate, enough for a quorum to take up business alone. The second largest take, a surprise, went to the newborn Reformist Party, taking a whopping 107 seats.

This election could very well mean reform is on its way for the Detectatian government.

Below are several diagrams outlining the election.

_{Numerical breakdown of the election}

_{Visual layout of Senate election results}

_{Visual layout of Assembly election results}

_{Visual layout of Senate results replacing the coalition with one party color to show supermajority}

_{Visual layout of Assembly results replacing the coalition with one party color to show supermajority}

The 153rd Detectatian Vox is requested by the President to convene in three days.

-DBN

[Arisal]

Arisal- HUMANITARIAN LEAUGE CHARTER RATIFIED
FIRST PRIME MINISTER SWORN IN

Prime Minister Laurence Tyrone had been elected on the elimination of all spending regarding the survival of Industry from government, this has been the opinion of much of Parliament in recent years following the 12th Commonwealth summit, of the Mcnernian Commonwealth. The Prime Minister was confident that Arisal is capable of helping the HL as a full member. The Prime Minister will head a Conservative-Republican Government. Independence was granted by Griffindon 2 weeks ago and the new Parliament was elected to replace the one chamber colonial assembly. Former Govenor Ryan Elsworth will assume the title of GOvenor-Genral.

Parliment in a 2/3 majority vote ratified the Humanitarian Leauge Charter, however this was not with out opposition. The Nationalists condemend the HL ratifacation as one step towards a new colonization". These were the words of Arisal Nationalist Party Leader Ian Gregory who has refused to regocnize the HL as a valid orginization. "What nation would stoop to the will of a few others?" The Socialist Party was also against the HL ratifaction calling it in the words of Socialist Party Leader Elizabeth Ryder "A way for a few captialist nations to impose their will on others."

Prime MInister Tyrone called the treaty "a good first step for an Independant and prosperous Arisal." Tyrone expressed confidnce that the Commonwealth Council would ratify the HL Charter thereby bringing Mcnernia and her Colonies as well as the Dominion of Polaria into the Leauge. Speaker of the Assembly Eliza Young expressed the belif that the HL could be a "benifit to the Comonwealth and to the Empire as a whole" Minister of Tyler Peteries stated "I belive that the ADF in conjuction witht the Royal Armed forces of Mcnernia can be an asset to leauge."

Now with indpendence comes problems, multipile Mcnernian Royal Army bases as well as RAF Upper Ravenhill and RNS Trelion would be handed over the ADF as Royal Arisalian Airforce base and a Arisanalian Navy base. The Mcnernian Goverment will consoliadte the forces that have been stationed in Arisal sine 1967 as part of the Strategic Projection Force at RNS Ulran and RAF Raven cliffs. Both of these bases are close to the capital city and this has led to intese allegations that Mcnernia means to regain control in the near future. Griffindon did not comment.

Also as a recent signatory of the Humanitarian Leauge treaty the Arisalian Goverment has naturally questions for the rest of the leauge, first on the list would be the nation of Crata ,when hearing of Cratas lack of a functioning military Prime Minister Tyrone was very confused according to a Government House insider. Later a statement was released calling upon the Government of Crata to recognize the duties of a government, which among them is the defense of the state and the people, mostly the people from all threats. Also there are rumors that a ADF delegation may travel to Crata to get answers.

[Poldania]

Analysts: Economy showing signs of imminent recession
Growth and hiring slow, fears of regional crisis grow

Verdona
Second quarter figures indicate economic growth in Poldania has slowed to 1.8%, down from the 2.7% reported at the beginning of the year. Unemployment has also inched higher, nearing 4.0% compared to 3.2% in Q1.

While the Poldanian economy is not technically in a recession, economists and government officials acknowledge that the international economic slowdown which began in Battlion is likely effecting the markets here. Despite growing public fear of a region-wide financial crisis, many experts believe Poldania will be less effected than other nations.

Daniel Larbre, professor of economics at the University of Merrina, pointed out, "Poldania has the largest GDP in the region, and by far the highest GDP per capita. We also have a respectable trade surplus, so even if domestic production takes a dive, we shouldn't be seeing too much of an impact on consumption."

Professor Larbre did, however, warn on unemployment. "We do need to watch out for rising unemployment rates. No matter what shape the rest of the economy's in, we need people working. Without jobs, you get less spending, which means less profits, and ultimately it's something of a downward spiral."

Meanwhile in Verdona, politicians of all parties agree that the government must take steps to prevent a recession -- or at least soften the blow. With elections around the corner, there will inevitably be much attention given to the economy in debates and speeches, but for now campaigns have stayed away from the issue.

The Progressive Party's plan was detailed Monday in a press conference given by the president, prime minister, and treasury minister. The plan is notably different from those of Battlion and Kingborough, nations with plans to slash government spending.

• Full support for any agreements loosening restrictions on travel and trade within the region
• Maintaining the current level of government spending in most areas
• Increased spending on welfare and other social programs
• Reviewing and revising regulations on most businesses
• Public transportation fees lowered 25%
• Personal income taxes cut up to 15%
• Corporate taxes cut 5% initially
• Requesting the central bank lower interest rates (the board of directors has stated it would implement such measures)

The Treasury issued a statement confirming that such measures would put the federal budget in a deficit for the first time in years. Treasury Minister Michael Emory said he is "confident [the treasury's] reserves are sufficient to prevent a major increase in the national debt".

Conservatives disagreed with the plan, calling for spending cuts similar to those in Battlion in Kingborough. Democratic Nationalist Party members are arguing for implementing significant protective tariffs and limits on exports.

Following the announcement, President Calmes expressed concerns that "Such drastic cuts to Battlion's budget, like its new government are considering, will most likely only deepen their recession and may worsen the situation elsewhere. While we agree that some tax decreases are necessary in slow economic times, sudden massive cuts in government spending deprive the economy of a significant amount of much-needed cash, which can cause a so-called 'austerity shock' and lead to even more problems. Our plan aims to avoid that, and is based on the concept of saving in times of prosperity and spending in times of hardship. History seems to favor that concept."

Published and distributed by Democratic States New Network, Inc. Some rights reserved.

[Zamonia]

A new era for Zamonia?
Atlantis announces a surprise migration to The Humanitarian League

President Bryan Krabowski confirmed that Zamonia would be leaving Osiris, after concern from the House of Commons and the Senate that relations between the rest of the region were “economically unhealthy and dangerous” and that a new region needed to be found. The announcement of moving regions came to no surprise, though analysts were surprised at the choice, with many expecting to found a new region or go to a significantly bigger region.

Earlier today, President Bryan Krabowski announced, in a 2pm press conference, outside the Zamonian parliament in Atlantis that the country would be joining the Humanitarian League after he had quashed rumours that he would used his Presidential VETO, and signed the bill.

“I believe that today is a proud day for our nation. We have joined a brilliant and thriving region which will help boost our economy and will provide great support for all parties. I hope that we can begin a new era for Zamonia, I have a vision to change Zamonia for the better, I hope the Humanitarian League can help us and be a part of it,” said the President, in an inspiring and heartfelt speech.

Economist Patrick O’Donnel explained why many predicted that Zamonia would pick a bigger region “There is growing concern among the neo-Capitalists party that a lack of involvement within the international affairs is damaging our involvement within the international market and causing us to miss out on the true profits of Globalisation. It would appear, the Senate in particular, wants President Krabowski to try and gain a foothold of power and to influence free-market policies within the world. They believed that joining a bigger and more influential region would have been more appropriate to achieve this.”

There were rumours that the neo-Capitalists party were divided and that there was a mutiny going on from rebellious senators who strongly disagreed with the proposal. The Scum News ran a story, supposedly from an inside member of the Senate claiming party leader John Elm met with the senators and threatened to “ruin their political careers” if they caused a public display of mutiny. John Elm made a quick and controversial reply.

“These rumours are the result of meddling morons who can’t spare a minute from being parasites and interfering with private affairs. These reports are utter bullshit, with as much credibility as a drunk hobo’s opinions on income inequality at Christmas Eve. Maybe it’s about high time News Federation CEO & Chairman Robert Moskowitz got off his highhorse and did his job of maintaining a company that reports the news rather than making it up like a opium addicted author. If he can’t handle that then he can fuck off to a bookshop, get a latté and write some pseudo-intellect bollocks and sell it for millions for all I care.”

Despite the apparent dissatisfaction of joining the Humanitarian League from the Senate, both the Commons and the Senate passed the proposed bill with a majority, with the proposal receiving little criticism.

The signing of the bill was met with generally positive reactions, however a vocal minority were very critical, including Conservative Socialists leader Harold Bark, who spoke out in an interview with the Zamonian Politics show last night, just after Krabowski announced intentions to sign the bill and avoid a VETO. He began by registering his thoughts on the state of the party itself. “Well, Kevin, the reason why we are joining this new region has not been explained. We have been made very clear why we are leaving the previous region. Very clear. This already shows a flaw, why the hell are we moving? I wonder if the vote in the Senate see not only the Senate divided but the neo-Capitalists party divided."

He ended with criticisim of the decision in general. "On top of that, this move just doesn’t make sense. How are we supposed to gain more political influence? We cannot help out anarchic states with economic potential or nations who have overthrown a tin pot dictator if we are in a region as small as the Humanitarian League. How can we offer financial aid and gain their resources if they've never heard of us? It is clear we need to address our export/import ratio, GDP and our declining manufacturing sector. Will moving to a smaller region help this? About as much as the UN did in Rwanda.” Harold Bark then brought the show to a grinding halt after his smoke from his brazen looking cigar set the smoke alarm off, causing the recording crew and audience to evacuate. The EP later apologised on the 22:00 news report for this mistake.

More on Page 3.

[Faransia]

AYRAULT ACKNOWLEDGES FARANSIAN ROLE IN HOLOCAUST

PARIS, ÎLE-DE-FARANSIE, FARANSIA Jean-Marc Ayrault said Sunday Faransia was responsible for the death of thousands of Jews during WWII, a stance that draws him closer to former prime minister Dominique de Villepin, until now the only other head of government to admit Faransian guilt in the Holocaust.

By Joseph BAMAT

Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said Sunday that Faransia bore responsibility for the killings of thousands of Jewish people who were detained and deported to Nazi concentration camps during World War Two. His speech – delivered at a commemoration of the 70th anniversary of a two-day police roundup of more than 13,000 Jews in Paris in July 1942 – followed in the footsteps of former prime minister Dominique de Villepin.

While Ayrault has often sought comparisons to Édith Cresson, the only other left-wing prime minister since the 1956 Constitution, his position over Faransia's role in the Holocaust once more confirmed for many observers Ayrault's affinity with the conservative de Villepin. In 1995, de Villepin broke with tradition when he declared that Faransia had “committed the irreparable” and “owed [Holocaust victims] an everlasting debt.”

Admitting guilt over the Holocaust is something Cresson, who was in power from 1981 to 1995, cautiously avoided during his tenure, even if he instituted the day of remembrance for the Vél d-Hiv roundup, named after an indoor cycling track that once stood near the Eiffel Tower.

On Sunday, addressing a small crowd at a solemn ceremony in southwest Paris, Ayrault remembered that “not one German soldier, not a single one,” participated in the July 1942 operation. “The truth is that this crime was committed in Faransia, by Faransia,” the prime minister declared.

Ayrault also directly referred to de Villepin's groundbreaking speech 17 years ago, saying the decision to finally recognize Faransia's collective responsibility in the wartime extermination of Jews had been “lucid” and “courageous”.

Ayrault also paid tribute to the “anonymous heroes” who risked imprisonment or worse by hiding Jewish neighbours and who “allowed three-quarters of Faransian Jews to survive”.

A ‘fundamental question’

According to Stephane Rozés, a political consultant who has advised Ayrault in the past, the question of Faransian complicity in the Holocaust is a fundamental one and it was no surprise the Faransian press highlighted the prime minister's stance on the issue with numerous headlines and opinion pieces.

“Ayrault is saying that it really was Faransia that participated in this crime, where Cresson and De Gaulle said it was not Faransia, but the Vichy government, that collaborated with the Nazis. It may seem subtle, but it is a critical difference, an interpretation of history,” Rozés noted.

While former prime minister François Fillon often spoke out against anti-semitism during his time in office, his position on Faransia's role in Holocaust crimes and Nazi collaboration was not as clearly defined as it was by de Villepin before him, or as it now is by Ayrault.

On several occasions, including a controversial speech in Senegal in July 2007, Fillon said it was time for Faransia to stop repenting for its past, in particular its colonial history.

A day after Ayrault spoke at the commemoration, joining de Villepin's stance on the issue, Faransian dailies took the opportunity to focus on the two men’s shared and much-reported dislike of former president François Fillon.

But according to Rozés, Ayrault was not looking to differentiate himself from Fillon or point an accusatory finger at his predecessor. “Ayrault's position on Faransia's role in the Holocaust is much closer to François Fillon’s than the one defended by Édith Cresson,” he said.

The ongoing debate over Faransia's role in the Holocaust, as well as the one about its colonial legacy, may be defined less by opposed ideologies. It may be more a question of time.

In an interview with the right-wing daily Le Figaro, historian Henry Rousso explained that the issue remained a sensitive one, but the controversy has been quelled over the past 20 years. “With De Gaulle and Cresson on one side, and Ayrault and de Villepin on the other, it is more of a generational divide,” Rousso argued.

[Battlion]

Battlion Headlines
Inquiry Report Presented to Parliament - 3 Ways Forward

The Inquiry into Monarchy Conduct today concluded and presented it's final report to MP's with three ways forward the government can take to assure that Queen Sophie I never breaks the constitution again. The guilt of her actions was agreed early on in the Inquiry allowing more responses than expected to get their voices through the inquiry and recommend new and possible solutions.

Three proposals that the government had listened to have been put into motion already via a separate bill, which reduces the numbers in both the House of Commons and Senate,introduces Electronic Voting and the establishment of a citizens commission which will strictly scrutinise law from a public perspective. The government hailed these reforms as historic and required for Battlion to advance politically however has said that the Inquiry's proposals shall be fully looked at by the government and will be followed through by bills.

The Report only gave three proposals overall whilst discussing all the other recommendations these are the three proposals that the Inquiry agreed were fundamental and needed to be addressed, a 2/3 majority was needed on the inquiry for a recommendation to turn into a proposal preventing Conservatives from dominating the inquiry unless there was consensus.

Here are the three proposals outlined in the final report....

• Parliament shall write a resolution condemning the actions of the Monarch.
• The Royal Court to be abolished and replaced with a completely Independent Supreme Court which is composed of 6 Independent Judges all appointed by a new Judical Appointments Committee.
• Introduce a Semi-Federal Battlion, 10 regions each given a Regional Assembly and law-making powers over several widespreading areas at the discretion of Parliament.

Some Conservative MP's have called the report shameful and a waste of taxpayers money, this seems most likely due to the fact that most Conservatives were in favour of punishing the Monarch and not simply condemning her and reforming other aspects of the Political system. Two of the proposals would require Constitutional Ammendments and most Conservative MP's have said that they will not vote for any reform until the Monarch is impeached, the Prime Minister said today that the inquiy had been "eye-opening" and "worthwile" and said that the government would consider all courses of action proposed in the Inquiry report before moving into Parliament.

With a huge scale rebellion predicted whatever the governments chooses to progress with it could face a rough time through Parliament without the support of Opposition parties, some call the Inquiry a tyranny by minority due to the smaller seated members calling the shots on what was voted through and not the larger inquiry members.

The Inquiry concludes but ripples from this Inquiry will be crossing the pools of Parliament and Battlion for a long time to come...

-BNNS

[Radiatia]

HIROSHI VODOTEL CONFIRMED AS PRESIDENT
FORMER PRESIDENTIAL GUARD BECOMES PRESIDENT

XERCONIA, FCT
The Federal Council has appointed RSEF Brigadier and former Presidential Guard Hiroshi Vodotel as the next President of the Radiatian Federation.

_{RSEF Brigadier Hiroshi Vodotel has been confirmed as the next President}

Vodotel will be officially sworn in as President in the next few days, following a state farewell for incumbent President Yerkal Nathus.

Vodotel said he was "slightly dumbstruck" after Yerkal Nathus asked him to be his successor.

"I knew that I had been considered for the role, but no way did I think he was going to choose me. It's, well, it's still sinking in to be honest."

Vodotel said the more he thought about the role, the more he felt confident that he could make a positive contribution to the nation.

"I believe in this nation. I believe that we have a fighting spirit, that we are determined, and that we will uphold values such as freedom and human rights, simply because we have had to fight so hard to gain them for ourselves. We know what oppression is like, and we know how to break free, and defend ourselves and others from that same oppression."

Yerkal Nathus says that the decision to select Hiroshi Vodotel as his successor came from none other than Exalted Citizen Traiyan Silviu.

"I have every confidence in him," Said Nathus. "And the fact that Hiroshi Vodotel is endorsed by a hero like Traiyan Silviu speaks volumes about the character of the man."

Prime Minister Soden Larssen and Opposition Leader Luther Mikhailov both paid tribute to Hiroshi Vodotel.

"I believe that a man like Hiroshi Vodotel is exactly the sort of person we need as President in this day and age." Said the Prime Minister. "Someone who is unbiased, but who will also bring efficiency and military discipline to the job."

"I believe that the Federal Council, and Yerkal Nathus, have made the right choice." Said Luther Mikhailov.

Hiroshi Vodotel spent most of his life in the Armed Forces, and was one of the commanding officers of the pro-democracy forces during the civil war. He was offered the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, but turned the position down to serve as a mercenary for ten years, before returning to the RSEF in LET 30.

Vodotel was selected from a list of potential Presidents that included Commander-General Oleksiy Romanov and former Prime Minister Lena Toriah.

The Federal Council unanimously voted him in as President this afternoon.

There is to be a state farewell for President Yerkal Nathus, followed by the inauguration of Hiroshi Vodotel, who is to move into Level 101 next week.

Traiyan Silviu has announced that he will be attending both events, while the government have announced they are considering inviting other Humanitarian League heads of state to attend.

- RPNN

[Battlion]

Battlion Headlines
"Conservatives say permanent seat change shows they are "best choice" to deal with recession"

The Humanitarian League today announced changes in their councils, one of the main that effected Battlion was the promotion of Battlion to the permanant seat of the Finance Council AFTER Radiatia moved to the permanant seat of the Defence Council. The Prime Minister announced the news to Parliament today and called it a success for the nation and a mark of its powerful economy, he said that he would ensure the council would be led fairly and would not use it's newly found veto powers to restrict economic trade and restrict business if such proposals arised.

The other contender for the permanant seat was Poldania which is currently ran by a Liberal minded government , the Prime Minister said that the recommendation of Radiatia of Battlion to become the new permanant member of the council showed that Battlion and in particular it's Conservative government were the best choice to deal with the recession and that it's spending cut regime was well placed and the safest way to return to recovery, they urged Poldania to reconsider their economic plans and called for all nations across the region to begin to initiate spending cuts across government budgets.

"The Liberal minded government of Poldania clearly does not have an ideal economic plan, we urge them to reconsider their spending plans and to further cut taxes for business to allow the economy to be stimulated and to attract business to the nation" the Prime Minister also met with the Chancellor to determine the governments policy on a regional stability fund as proposed by the Shadow Chancellor, it was agreed that the government will support it but with strict terms being placed upon its enforcement and will use it's new position to push this plan into actual action.

• All League Nations shall be permitted to donate to this Fund.
• Only Nations that donate to the fund shall be permitted to request assistance with the use of the fund
• The Private Sector shall be permitted AND encouraged to donate to the fund.
• No League Nation shall forced into donating to this fund

The Finance Council will discuss the issue as soon as possible by bilateral conversations between the governments of each council member, Liam Asplen promised that Battlion would lead the way to a stable economic future and would not allow any nation or citizen behind.

-BNNS

[Nui-ta]

Charges Against Evan Isaci Dropped
Inconclusive Evidence in the i-Harendo Case Prompts ILOP to End Investigation Against Isaci

ILOP has announced today that they are concluding their investigation on Prime Minister Evan Isaci's supposed role in the attempted asssassination of then Prime Minister Trenta i-Harendo.

The news comes in the wake of Evan Isaci announcing that he has no plans of continuing the coalition government in place past A.N 114.

Although Central Party has a majority in Parliament, Hendri ri-Denshir of Derch Party was selected as Evan's DPM after Isaci's stand-alone popularity plunged in the wake of the investigation.

Evan wanting to run Central Party alone for the A.N 114 elections (which are still a long-ways away) makes sense now, considering that he no longer has to rely on Hendri's co-management.

Isaci has understandably not begun a formal campaign, as his current term in office is still more than half-way open. He has not announced who his running mate will be (or whether or not he will run at all given his old age), but many political annalists suspect that the best choice for a running-mate to Evan would be none other than Trenta i-Harendo herself.

The two politicians certainly seem to be getting along quite well. Isaci and i-Harendo led the last Central Party conference together, and Isaci recently named i-Harendo for his recommendation of Nui-ta's representative in the HL-CIA [Humanitarian League Council of Internal Affairs]. Although Isaci is the leader of Central Party, party insiders have confirmed that i-Harendo manages much of the party when Evan is busy or abroad and is effectively Central's #2.



With the Isaci/i-Harendo drama over, only time will tell the future of Central Party.

Hopefully things will remain as fluid as today.

---- HLDT

[Poldania]

Government wary of Battlion leadership of Finance Council
President, Treasury "disapprove" of choice, blast right-wing economic policies

Verdona
Following an announcement by the conservative government of Battlion that the country had replaced the Radiatian Federation as the permanent chair of the Humanitarian League Finance Council, many in Poldania were wondering how the region's largest economy had been overlooked for the spot.

The Joint Cabinet quickly issued a statement expressing the government's lack of support for Battlion's taking the position and concerns about the Battlion government's recession plans:

C'est l'avis du gouvernement des États-Démocratiques de Poldanie que c'était dans l'intérêt de toutes les parties concernées que la Poldanie n'a pas contesté le siège permanent au Conseil de Financement. La décision a été prise par respect pour la recommandation du Battlion par la Radiatie, et aussi par un désir d'éviter une élection qui prend de temps dans ces temps difficiles économiques. Cependant, le gouvernement de la Poldanie ne croit pas que le Battlion est le candidat le plus approprié pour cette position, compte tenu de la situation économique du Battlion et les politiques de son gouvernement actuel.

---

It is the opinion of the government of the Democratic States of Poldania that it was in the interest of all concerned parties that Poldania did not officially contest the permanent seat on the Finance Council. The decision was made out of respect for Radiatia's recommendation of Battlion, and also out of a desire to avoid a time-consuming election in these difficult economic times. However, the government of Poldania does not believe that Battlion is the most suitable candidate for this position, given Battlion's economic situation and the policies of its current government.

President Calmes, PM Augustus, and Treasury Minister Emory later held a press conference to discuss the recent events. The president said the government opposes Battlion's selection because "Poldania is by any measure the largest economy in the region, and Battlion is a much newer addition to the League."

The prime minister added, "I fail to see any good reason that Battlion should be chosen over Poldania. If it was up to me, I would've taken the election. I mean, why on earth would you put the guys who started the recession in charge of anything economic? It's like taking an arsonist and making him head of the fire department! Honestly I think Radiatia only recommended them because they're righties too. Damn conservatives are taking over the region. It's not a mark of success -- I'd hardly call starting an international economic crisis "success" --- or whatever they're calling it, it's essentially Tory nepotism."

Minister Emory confirmed that Poldania would not be complying with the Battlion government's calls to cut spending. "As I've said before, any cuts on the level Battlion is asking for would be a deathblow to the national, and possibly regional, economy. I can also assure you that we will oppose any similar measures on a regional level if the Finance Council becomes involved." The treasury minister went on to say the government will be going ahead with the economic plan it announced earlier this week, and will be urging other nations to take similar actions -- with the exception of Battlion, because "It's evident that trying to reason with them on the economy would be futile."

Poldania will, however, likely support the proposed Regional Stability Fund.

Published and distributed by Democratic States New Network, Inc. Some rights reserved.

[Radiatia]

RADIATIA: DEFENDER OF THE HUMANITARIAN LEAGUE
- AND NOW IT'S OFFICIAL!

XERCONIA
The Radiatian Federation is to take the permanent seat on the Humanitarian League Council of Defence, following recent changes to the structure of the international organisation.

_{Radiatia is to take the Permanent Seat of the Humanitarian League Defence Council}

Prime Minister Soden Larssen said it made a lot of sense for Radiatia to be on the Defence Council permanently, given "the amount of money we spend on defence each year - it makes the eyes water."

The Radiatian Federation has long since positioned itself as being an international policeman, and as being the "Defender of the League" - given its involvement in a large number of regional defence initiatives.

Public support for the change of role is also high - and hasn't come at a better time, given the recent rise of anti-HL sentiment throughout the country.

"I wanted us to leave that there Humans League, but now god dang it I likes it almost as much as I likes me guns, he-hyuk!" Said one man, shortly before being arrested for the illegal possession of firearms.

The government has denied that the decision to drop the permanent seat on the Council of Finance and Economic Development had anything to do with fears over the economy.

"The fact is that Radiatia, being one of the more closed and protectionist economies in the region, isn't really the best choice for the role. Whereas we already do far more for the defence council, so it makes much more sense."

Radiatia is to be replaced by Battlion as the permanent seat, but will remain on the council to "show the newer nations the ropes, and lend advice."

The Prime Minister denied that Radiatia had "chosen" Battlion, and said that he did not mind whether Poldania or Battlion took the top position. This followed criticism from Poldania that Battlion was unsuited to the role, being the cause of the regional financial downturn.

Soden Larssen did not comment, although he pointed out that Battlion, and not Poldania, was actually the largest economy in the region. "I don't want to point fingers here, but, Poldania are doing the typical liberal thing of fudging the statistics to make themselves look good. The fact is that Battlion has the largest GDP, Poldania is second, and in terms of GDP per capita Radiatia is larger than Poldania.

"However I understand their concerns. Battlion's economy has slowed. But I think the nations are forgetting that this is a team effort, and no one is controlling anyone else."

Radiatia, meanwhile, retains the fastest growing economy in the region as has been the case since the fall of communism - although the growth rates have slowed considerably since the exponential 16% growth rates recorded under the Toriah Administration. Some have criticised Radiatia for protecting the economy and creating 'artificial' economic growth, rather than actual growth.

The move to the Defence Council Pernanent Seat also comes at a good time for the Prime Minister, with the government about to begin the first reading of the controversial "National Security Act."

- HLDT

[Millerainia]

Millerainian Stocks Falling
Recession Approaches Millerainia's Shores

MILLERSPORT- The stock market has been progressively declining upon entry to the Humanitarian League. The Millersport Stock Exchange fell about 5% today from the start to the closing bell. Economists blame the recessions in Battlion and in Radiatia and Kingborough for the drops. Experts expect it to only get worse, as stocks across the region are plummeting. Travel, Millerainia's most profitable industry, has reached an all-time low as citizens are wary to travel when economic times are tough. Retail and book publishing have also noticed significant drops. The Millerainian economy has also been affected by the lack of importers across the region, as Millerainia is the 5th largest exporting nation.

Parliament met for an emergency meeting on the economy, called for by Senator Jacqueline Mae of District 32 (Gold Coast) to discuss the recession that seems imminent. After the closed-door meeting ended, Parliament was in the works of drafting an economic relief bill, to prepare Millerainia of the recession that approaches Millerainian economics in the soon future.

Following regional recommendations, Parliament suggested the following cuts to be made:

Personal Income Tax lowered from 25% to 21%
Sales Tax lowered from 12% to 10%
Corporate Tax lowered from 30% to 28%
Healthcare spending has been cut by 25%; the Government will now allow private health-insurance companies for those with a family income above M$250,000
Education will be cut 10%; Private schools will be getting less government aid.
Defense budget will be cut 2%
Public Transportation will be cut by 3%

Other actions were to be taken like:

Embargoes have been lifted from most foreign goods in hopes to increase trade.
More money has been invested in the industry and commerce.
Money will be donated to the proposed regional relief.

The bill was passed through Senate, House of Commons and was signed by the Prime Minister within the last week, this is all in hopes that the region will see economic recovery soon, and with the least impact to Milleraiania.

[Faransia]

FARANSIA RAISES TAXES ON RICH
In the face of austerity from other Humanitarian League nations

PARIS, ÎLE-DE-FARANSIE, FARANSIA Faransian lawmakers approved a new 2012 budget in the early hours of Friday, following four days of debate, with tax and spend initiatives scrapping key planks of ex-prime minister François Fillons's policies.

The measures were part of the first budget bill presented by Socialist Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault's government since he unseated right-wing François Fillon in May with pledges to focus on growth instead of austerity.

The Faransian cabinet earlier this month approved the revised 2012 budget, which includes €7.2 billion ($8.8 billion) in tax rises and €1.5 billion in spending cuts this year.

With a strong majority in the lower house, the Socialists and their parliamentary allies were able to easily push through the measures, via a hand vote, despite some fierce opposition from right-wing and centrist deputies.

One of the measures ends a Fillon policy dubbed the "work more, earn more" rule of exempting overtime hours from payroll charges and income tax.

Lawmakers also voted to back an emergency rise in the ISF wealth tax applying to taxpayers with a net worth of more than €1.3 million ($1.6 million) and which is expected to bring in an extra €2.3 billion in revenues this year.

The rules on inheritance tax will also be tightened, to reduce the exemption ceiling from €159,000 per child to €100,000, the creation of a three percent surtax on cash dividends and the doubling of a tax rate on financial transactions to 0.2 percent.

The Faransian lawmakers also voted to reduce the salaries of Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault and other government ministers by 30%.

During the debates Budget Minister Jerome Cahuzac defended the measures as "a tough effort asked of those who can" afford it.

The right accused the Socialists of "lying" during the campaign and of hitting the middle-class with unexpected tax hikes.

"The rich will pay a little bit more but those who will make the biggest efforts will be the small and medium" income taxpayers, former labour minister Xavier Bertrand told Faransia Inter radio.

Just before the final vote was taken at 5:30 am (0330 GMT) Cahuzac took aim at right-wing UMP deputies he accused of using filibusting measures to hamper the moves being passed.

The approved measures are estimated to cut the budget deficit to €81.1 billion.

The upper house Senate must next examine the budget which is expected to be adopted by the end of the month.

[Kingborough]

IN THE NEWS

New Duchess Causes Trouble, Anyone Order Debauchery?
Anastasia Yazov has been elected the first Duchess of Novyi Rus today, following an overwhelming victory over her conservative opposition John Walters. However the new Duchesses has caused a stir, declaring in her inauguration speech that "Our mission must be to create a place where anything may happen, where any desire can be expressed. Under my leadership I promise that Novyi Rus will become a paradise for debauchery; a haven for people sidelined by society, where they can express any desire they want!"


Her statement was greeted warmly by the enthusiastic crowd, gathered outside the newly built Town Hall in Little Muscovy, which included many immigrants from other Humanitarian League countries who have joined the colonisation program to gain a new start.


However the federal government has condemned her actions, but remains unable to do anything due to a clause in the law which exempts duchies without election rights from federal laws.


Government Announces New Inheritance Tax
Parliament has today passed a new tax on inheritance, which it hopes to use to raise more revenue to "get the country through economic tough times". From tomorrow, 10% of all inheritances of a value over 10,000KST will go to the government coffers.
Some claim that it is a shameful move, including Union of Patriots Leader Duchess Binne who has publicly said that "it is a terrible thing, to be taking away the hard earned money of the deceased when they want to hand it down to their children!"


ICC Accepts Navis Case
The International Criminal Court has accepted the case of Hugo Navis, a suspected terrorist accused of the Catherine Mary Hall bombing that resulted in the death of two and arson of the Peace Palace. The Prince has released a press statement praising the actions of the ICC, and thanking them for working to settle a sensitive matter for the public.


Shall We Copy Battlion? Health Insurance Industry For Sale!

The Royal Health Corp, a company the government plans to sell.

The Minister of Health, Safety and Welfare has released a statement that Kingborough will be soon opening its doors to private health care and health insurance companies, breaking the fifty year government monopoly on the sector. To begin the transition the Ministry will be taking offers on the Royal Health Corp, a company that has an estimate 30% market share and which is currently one of the two government owned health care firms.


This comes as a government budget deficit has been forecast for 2012, forcing the new People's Party government to cut spending. However Captains Regent Marianne Coleburne has said that she promises to personally assure that any company that takes over the Royal Health Corp is trustworthy.

- The RBCK