The Blackdon Daily Journal [Afalian Newspaper/OPEN]

[Afalia]

The Blackdon Daily Journal is the most popular newspaper in Afalia. Printed daily in Afalia's capital, Blackdon, it is sold around the nation and the world. Originating as a local newspaper established for Blackdon in 1814, it soon expanded as its circulation grew, leading it to its unchallenged place of the most widely read newspaper in Afalia today from both the citizen and politicians.

The journal tries its utmost best to remain impartial and fair in all of its reporting and expressions of opinion. It has endorsed both of the main political parties in Afalia over the years, with its last endorsement for the Liberal Party, currently in office.

If you wish to order copies of the newspaper please ask below. Comments from governments, individuals and all others, whether positive, negative or constructive are always welcomed. We also welcome inquires regarding endorsements for foreign elections-please inquire below or via telegram. Articles relating to Afalia are also welcomed-from different publications.

LIST OF HISTORIC ENDORSEMENTS
Like many other newspapers, the Journal has often endorsed particular parties and candidates for a wide variety of elections, both national and international. It has endorsed parties and candidates from across the political spectrum. If you would like the paper to endorse you please send us a telegram and a link to the election you're taking part in.

For Afalian General Elections
1952-No endorsement, but supported the formation of the pre-election national unity government coalition agreement.
1955-Liberals-'Michael Rogers three years as Prime Minister so far have seen him prove he deserves another three. Though we encourage as much consensus building as possible on social matters Rogers' and the Liberals' foreign policy is better for Afalia than the Tories.'
1958-Liberals-'The conduct of the government during the Ghiswall Incident has been troublesome to say the least. That said we'd still prefer Mr Rogers over Mr Hughes.'
1960-Conservatives
1963-Conservatives
1966-Liberals
1969-Liberals-'After eleven years of Conservative rule the country is crying out for a modernised set of ideas for a modern Afalia.'
1972-Liberals
1975-Liberals
1978-Liberals
1981-Liberals
1984-Liberals-'We are not convinced that Christie can do it. Hawkins may be dull but he knows what he's doing.'
1987-Liberals
1990-Liberals
1993-Conservatives-'The Liberals have failed time and again to respond effectively to Christieite economics. They have also failed to choose a leader and front bench worthy of office, perhaps because they know they will lose but either way by playing it safe they have lost out on winnings.'
1996-Liberals
1999-Liberals
2000-Liberals
2003 (Jan)-Liberals
2003 (Oct)-Liberals-'Zachary Douglas is a reactionary in all but rhetoric. Patrick Collins' deserves at least three more years to continue his reforms.'
2006-Liberals
2009-Liberals-'The odds are stacked against the Liberals but they've beaten worse odds before. We give them our full backing.'
2012-Liberals
2014-Liberals
2017-Liberals-'Some of the Conservative front bench represent an exciting new prospect for Afalian politics. Despite this Roger Lucas' dreary traditionalist coalition has come to dominate policy and override common sense in the Tories. In contrast Jessica Shaw and the Liberals have put forward a radical but cautious programme of government including continued reforms. We endorse both Shaw for PM and the Liberals for government in spite of the polls at the moment.'

For British General Elections*
1955-Conservatives
1959-Labour
1964-Labour
1966-Labour
1970-Conservatives
1974 (February)-Conservatives
1974 (October)-Conservatives
1979-Labour
1983-SDP/Liberal Alliance
1987-SDP/Liberal Alliance
1992-Conservatives
1997-Labour
2001-Labour
2005-Labour
2010-Labour
2015-Coalition (Lib-Lab)
2017-Liberal Democrats (Labour where candidates are anti-Brexit or even Conservative anti-Brexit candidates)

For American Presidential Elections
1952-Eisenhower (R)
1956-Eisenhower (R)
1960-Kennedy (D)
1964-Johnson (D)
1968-Humphrey (D)
1972-McGovern (D)
1976-Carter (D)
1980-Carter (D)
1984-Mondale (D)
1988-Bush (R)
1992-Clinton (D)
1996-Clinton (D)
2000-Gore (D)
2004-Kerry (D)
2008-Obama (D)
2012-Obama (D)
2016-Clinton (D)

*-In IC Afalia doesn't know anything about Britain or America but they're included here for reference.

[Afalia]

RE-BUILDING WORK BEGINS
7th May 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper-

Firefighters and soldiers searching for survivors in the rubble following the Blitzen bomb attack, a few months ago.

THE RE-BUILDING OF large areas of Blackdon destroyed by the Blitzen Bomb in January 2013 has officially begun, following a host of donations from foreign nations. A mixture of public sector workers and private sector businesses, most of whom have given up their time to help re-build, started the work today at nine. Almost a mile of central Blackdon, most of it residential was destroyed in the early days of the attempted invasion by the fascist totalitarian dictatorship of Titanica, as the single Blitzen bomb was dropped. Over 130,000 people were killed. Alongside large residential areas the Afalian parliament was destroyed in its entirety, leading the government to launch a competition today for designs for the new building.

Donations of billions worth of US dollars and chands were donated by foreign governments including Itailia which is donating through the newly formed Afalian Relief Agency. The foreign secretary Jonathan Charles today thanked all of those foreign governments who had donated to the re-building cause as well as the formation of the new Afalian armed forces. 'Donations,' he said, 'Have helped kickstart the re-building process and we are forever in their debt.'

Alongside the construction of thousands of new homes, work on building the new parliament will begin as soon as a successful design is chosen. A monument to the victims of the Blitzen bomb, as well as the soldiers of the Coalition of Democratic Forces from member nations will be erected at the impact site of the bomb, alongside the parliament building to be built.

Before construction began members of the cabinet and parliament held a silent prayer at the impact site, on the ashes of the former parliament, before the singing of the national anthem. The prime minister said, 'We will recover, stronger than ever.' In scenes reminiscent of 9/11 in the United States, the Afalian flag was hosted on a pole in the middle of the rubble.

[Afalia]

EMMERIAN PRESIDENT ASSASINATED
Prime Minister pays tribute to President Castilla, a great protector of freedom and defender of Afalia
9th May 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

PRESIDENT LUIS CASTILLA of the United Republic of Emmeria was assassinated by a currently unknown gunman last night during a foreign policy speech in a square in Premislyd. President Castilla was shot in the head by a high powered sniper rifle by a suspect currently unknown, from a concealed position in the square. Despite being rushed to hospital doctors pronounced him dead last evening. The soon to be Acting President, currently Vice President Washington Hayes said Castilla, 'went down a champion of freedom', and vowed to not quit until those involved in the former president's death were punished.

The prime minister, who was working late in his study during the evening was informed on the news in the early hours of Afalian time. Speaking this morning at a special press conference outside his office, Mr. Kelly described President Castilla as, 'A truly great protector of freedom, a truly great friend to Afalia, a truly great man in every way.'

Mr. Kelly went on, 'Today is a day for mourning, for prayers for the former President's family and a day for remembering the aid that President Castilla gave us, the whole nation, and the sacrifices he made in order to help defend Afalia. He would not stand for dictatorship, no, instead like a thunderstorm he helped liberate the fascist tyrannies before him and preserve the birthrights of every man-those of freedom, liberty and security. And whenever despotism and totalitarian horrors came knocking on the doors of every free country, across this globe, when they came with threatening, aggressive intent and the desire to destroy, President Castilla and the U.R would be there to blow them back into place.'

The prime minister, with the foreign secretary and the chief of the defence staff Matthew Dawson behind him, concluded, 'Dictators may reign, but the full force and power of freedom will topple even the worst of tyrannies. President Castilla was a force of and for freedom. Whilst he may be gone, his legacy will live on.'

The Emmerian Secret Service is suspected to release details of a suspect responsible for Castilla's death within a few hours. The foreign secretary today offered the United Republic any help it needed.

[Afalia]

COUNTER-TERRORISM ACT SIGNED INTO LAW
24th May 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper-

THE KING HAS signed the Counter-Terrorism Act into law this morning following a near unanimous vote in the House of Commons and House of Peers. The bill, described by the prime minister as a 'landmark fight against potential Titanican terrorism', was passed with the support of the opposition the Afalian Socialists after cross-party talks between the prime minister and leader of the opposition.

The bill, created in order to counter potential Titanican terrorist activity during the trial of Jack Lazin, includes a number of provisions criticised by some. However civil liberty groups agreed that the bill was necessary, as long as it was on a temporary basis. Provisions in the bill include longer lengths of detention without trial for terror suspects, raising the limit from 48 hours as with all other crimes to 1 week, as well as the arming of all Royal Blackdon police officers, although no other forces.

Operating on a sunset clause the bill will automatically repeal itself in a year unless it is passed again. Its passing comes as the third reading of the War Crimes Capital Punishment bill, the bill which will allow the death penalty for Jack Lazin, approaches its third reading in the Commons. If it passes there then it will most likely have a quick reading and passing in the House of Peers before being signed into law.

[Afalia]

PRINCESS AMELIA TO MARRY SOON
30th May 2013-1 Chand=Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

Princess Amelia, seen here with her engagement ring box at a charity event earlier this week.

PRINCESS AMELIA'S WEDDING to Prince Frédéric of the Empire of Lyncanestria will take place soon Palace officials have said. Her engagement to Prince Frédéric came earlier this month and was the culmination of a search for a husband which began in December last year. The wedding will take place at St. Nicholas' cathedral in Blackdon, the official location for the coronation of monarchs, with details set to be released soon.

Amelia will meet the new Emperor of Lyncanestria, Samuel, at the event who took the throne after William III's death earlier this month. A whole host of nations are expected to attend including all of the Coalition of Democratic Forces member states who helped defend Afalia from attack earlier this year as well as the United Kingdom of Harold I, Afalia's regional neighbour and others.

The Blackdonian Palace has not announced details of what Prince Frédéric will be known as once he marries Princess Amelia, but have said an announcement will be made on the day regarding his official title.

[Afalia]

JONES' SPEECHWRITER GAFFE
23rd June-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

Samuel Hopkins, a speechwriter for Afalian Socialist leader and leader of the opposition Martin Jones, was forced to apologise last night after a twitter comment regarding Adolf Hitler. Hopkins who was tweeting with what he described as a 'classic internet troll', compared the Afalian Socialist leader Martin Jones to Hitler. In response Hopkins replied, 'What's wrong with politicians being like Hitler, Hitler was very charismatic!' The tweet was immediately picked up by online news and blogs despite Hopkins deleting the tweet seven minutes later. Hopkins issued a press release this morning outside of party headquarters in Blackdon, where he apologised for his remark and said he did not intend to upset anybody.

Martin Jones has confirmed that Hopkins will keep his job despite the hashtag #SackHopkinsNow trending on Afalian twitter channels. Jones said Hopkins was a good person, but like all people got stressed and made mistakes.

[Afalia]

PRIME MINISTER TO MAKE MAJOR FOREIGN POLICY ADDRESS
23rd June-1 Chand-Afali's Most Popular Newspaper

FAIRFAX HOUSE HAS announced that the prime minister's annual speech to the Foreign Correspondent's Club this week will include the announcement of major changes in Afalian foreign policy. Changes since the Titanican War in Afalia's foreign and defence policy have been clear, but Fairfax House, the PM's official residence, have suggested that the speech will, 'usher in a new era of Afalian foreign policy', according to one close source. The annual address to the Afalian Foreign Correspondent's Club each June began in 1987 during Nicholas Christie's premiership.

According to our Fairfax House source, Kelly has often looked to Christie as inspiration for his own new foreign policy. Christie's increased involvement through the WA and free trade led to the beginning of a new, more involved Afalia on the international stage. Fairfax House has said this week's speech will be similar.

Kelly himself has been largely silent over what he will say in the speech, in contrast to the leaking of previous years. The leader of the opposition and Afalian Socialist leader Martin Jones warned the prime minister in a press conference last Thursday not to 'throw out and destroy the peace Afalia has enjoyed.' But Kelly criticised Jones' speech as misguided and accused him of failing to understand reality.

[Afalia]

CRICKET GROUND BOMBING PLOT EXPOSED
1st July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

Aerial shot of Majesty Cricket Ground.

THE COUNTER-TERRORISM SQUAD of the Royal Blackdon Police today revealed details of a plot to bomb Majesty Cricket Ground in Blackdon. The ground, home to both Blackdon County Cricket Club and the national Afalian cricket team, was, police said, targeted by an Afalian citizen, (as yet unnamed), sympathetic to the fascist Titanica and fundamentally opposed to Afalia's new liberal interventionist foreign policy. The citizen was arrested this morning and is being held by police.

The potential bomber conspired to detonate a large pipe bomb at Majesty Cricket Ground during the second day of play between Blackdon CCC and Hopeshire CCC this Saturday. The county championship match is expected to be a key title decider this season and is expected to be heavily attended. Blackdon CCC told the Blackdon Daily Journal that police had given them the all clear and that the match would go forward as planned.

Detective Chief Inspector Louis Sweets, who headed up the investigation, said that at 6.00AM this morning an arrest was made at a Blackdon property of a man in his early 30s, on suspicion of conspiracy to commit terrorism and possession of a deadly weapon. DCI Sweets also told the Journal, 'At this point it appears that this bomb plot is the act of a lone wolf, of the man arrested this morning. We do not see any evidence of any wider connections to any terror groups.'

[Afalia]

CRICKET BOMB PLOTTER SUSPECT CHARGED
2nd July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia’s Most Popular Newspaper

THE SUSPECT IN the Majesty Cricket Ground bomb plot was named yesterday as Alfred Helmore, and charged by the Crown Prosecution Service for a variety of crimes. Helmore, 31, an apparent admirer of Titanican dictator Jack Lazin-currently preparing to stand trial for war crimes, was charged with conspiracy to commit an act of terrorism, possession of a deadly weapon and disturbing the peace. Late last night police released further details of Helmore and his arrest on Monday morning.

In his house in Hinning, west Blackdon, a pipe bomb was discovered as well as plans, detailed in a diary, on how he would carry out the attack. Upon his arrest at 6.00AM Monday Helmore resisted arrest by attempting to stab police officers with a kitchen knife. Police soon restrained Helmore and no officers were injured. The Counter-Terrorism squad also revealed that tip-offs from neighbours led to the arrest.

Leaked extracts from Helmore’s diary revealed his plans to detonate a pipe bomb by placing it within one of the stands of the ground. The extracts also reveal Helmore’s apparent admiration of Jack Lazin and his imperialist ideology.

Asked to comment by reporters, the prime minister said, ‘I do not want to comment on a case before it has been heard by the courts and a decision made. All I have to say is that no matter how many cowards, whether they’re Titanican or unfortunately citizens of our own nation, try to destroy our democratic society-they will always fail. ’

[Afalia]

PRIME MINISTER PROPOSES MASSIVE EMPIRE FREE TRADE DEAL
URGES SUMMIT BETWEEN 6 EMPIRE HEADS OF GOVERNMENT
2nd July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia’s Most Popular Newspaper

The PM speaking to small business owners earlier today.

THE PRIME MINISTER today called for a new, massive free trade deal between Afalia and the five colonies of the Empire. In a speech to the Small Business Club in Granville, Christopher Kelly urged the six heads of government within the Empire, including himself, to agree a date for an economic summit where such a deal could be held.

Kelly said he wanted, ‘even closer relations’ with the new Afalian colonies, the Sullivan Islands-led by Prime Minister Frederick Jacobs, Pyreneesia-led by Governor Jean Babeuax, Aissurop-led by First Minister Janton Krüger, Banntland-led by Governor Michael Samuels and Joyton-led by Governor Lee Cheng. All of the colonies are united within the Empire and by their shared head of state-His Majesty King George.

Leader of the opposition Martin Jones, who last week described himself as an, ‘avid protectionist’, called instead for a empire-wide protectionist framework, in which each national economy would be protected through a series of tariffs.

The proposal is the first in a series of plans designed by the empire’s heads of government, to promote unity amongst the Empire, including proposed state visits by the King to all of the five colonies.

[Afalia]

FOREIGN SECRETARY RESPONDS TO SULLIVAN ISLAND DEMONSTRATIONS
3rd July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

THE FOREIGN SECRETARY Jonathan Charles today defended the Sullivan Island's status as an autonomous, self-governing colony of the new Empire of Afalia. Charles, who has served as foreign secretary throughout Christopher Kelly's premiership, was a prominent figure in launching the new Democratic Empire Expansion programme and creating the new democratic empire. Questioned by opposition MPs in his weekly commons question time, Charles defended the Sullivan Islands' accession to the empire.

'It was done with the backing of the Sullvanian parliament,' Charles said, 'If 90% of the elected representatives of the Sullvanian people support a proposal-I call their decision to become a part of this empire as democratic and fair. Considering the large amount of sovereignty they enjoy, self-government and autonomy in almost all areas, I believe that the Sullivan Islands have only been strengthened by their decision to become a part of this growing group and family.'

But speaking later outside his residence Charles re-itteriated the terms of accession to the empire, including the right of withdrawal, 'If Sullvanians want out they will have a referendum as we all will to decide that. I think the press here have been talking up these protests, of an 80 million strong nation, only six thousands took part in these demonstrations. I respect their view and welcome their democratic right of expressing their opinion through protest, but I believe that the Sullivan Islands are better off a part of the empire.'

[Afalia]

COLLINS WARNS OF MODERATE LEFT APPEAL
4th July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

The former prime minister has privately expressed doubts over Martin Jones leadership and ideological stance.

FORMER PRIME MINISTER Patrick Collins writing today in the Blackdon Daily Journal has warned Afalian Socialist leader Martin Jones of the rising appeal of the Moderate Left, the minor, but active and growing party in Afalia. The former Afalian Socialist prime minister who served in the office between 2000 and 2004 is still an active member of the Third Way modernising faction of the Afalian Socialist party. Writing in this newspaper Collins warns the current leader of the Afalian Socialists, traditional socialist Martin Jones that the party's electoral chances could be seriously damaged by the Moderate Left.

Jones, who was elected leader of the party in 2012 in a shock result, has reversed most of the modernising reforms that the party undertook in response to the 16 year premiership of Progressive Conservative Nicholas Christie. Collins, the prime leader of the movement has in the past, expressed doubts over Jones' leadership privately. Amongst many of the policies the party has adopted under Jones, nationalisation, state, central planning of the economy, drug and abortion legalisation and the abolition of the new armed forces, were picked on by Collins as the most damaging. In his article he also warns of losing the middle ground to the Progressive Conservatives, who Collins claims have dominated the centre since the mid-2000s. Bu he particularly warns of the Moderate Left filling the moderate, centre-left gap left by the Afalian Socialists.

In response to today's article Afalian Socialist headquarters in Blackdon issued a press release saying, 'We welcome and respect the views of Patrick Collins, both as former leader of this party and prime minister. Martin Jones welcomes input and opinions on all of his policies, but believes he is pursuing the path that will not only lead the party back into power, but also benefit every hard working Afalian.' Privately however clashes between Jones and Collins factions have been increasingly common within the party, with many commentators and socialist MPs describing the last 9 months of Jones' leadership as, 'the most bloody and bitter since the party was founded.'

INSIDE-Opinion:'The Moderate Left Represent A Serious Danger To The Afalian Socialists'-Patrick Collins MP Page 6, Latest Opinion Polls: Socialists Down Again Page 9,

[Afalia]

CRICKET BOMB PLOTTER APPEARS IN COURT
FURTHER DIARY ENTRIES REVEALED
4th July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

ALFRED HELMORE, THE cricket ground bomb plotter appeared in court this morning charged with conspiracy to commit an act of terrorism, as well as possession of a deadly weapon and disturbing the peace. Helmore, 31, an unmarried computer technician at a Blackdon computer specialist appeared only to confirm his name and address before being taken back to his cell in Hinning Central police station.

Police also released further details and extracts from Helmore's diary, which included his plans to detonate a pipe bomb at Majesty Cricket Ground in central Blackdon. Diary extracts show Helmore's imaginary target list, including Fairfax House, the prime minister's residence, the Palace of Shriston which houses parliament, Blackdonian Palace, the King's main residence and M.J.R International Airport in Blackdon. Police commented that despite having a target list there were no plans on how to carry out such terror attacks and that the extracts appeared to be, 'pure fantasy.'

Our court correspondent James Douglas said that Helmore appeared wearing a standard police cell issued blue jumpsuit and that he spoke quietly, his voice cracking in the few words he spoke. His main trial will begin on Monday.

[Afalia]

TRADE TALKS DUE TO BEGIN IN BLARTLEO
5th July-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

HEADS OF GOVERNMENT from all six nations of the Empire of Afalia arrived yesterday at the Royal Court Hotel in Blartleo for the first free trade summit in the new empire. The prime minister Christopher Kelly is hosting the prime minister of the Sullivan Islands, the Governor of Pyreneesia, the First Minister of Aissurop and the Governor of Banntland and Governor of Joyton. The Royal Court Hotel's new conference centre, built last year, will host the six heads of government and their staff in a free trade discussion and deals.

Sources from Fairfax House suggest that Christopher Kelly's primary aim is the establishment of an open free trade market amongst members of the empire, barring a few exceptions. However it is unclear whether such a market will be possible at this stage. The trade talks will begin this morning and are expected to last for a few days.

Our political editor Louise Watson has suggested that whilst the main aim of the trade deal is economic and the potential for further unity amongst members of the Empire, the prime minister is also hoping to show up the protectionist stance of opposition leader Martin Jones. In an opposition motion yesterday Jones called for the summit to be used to create a protectionist framework, safeguarding the individual economies of the empire. The motion was easily defeated by the Progressive Conservatives.

[Afalia]

AFALIA OFFICIALLY JOINS ICE
5th July-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

The Security Secretary earlier today, following confirmation of Afalia's ICE membership.

AFALIA HAS OFFICIALLY joined the International Coalition of Expansion following a membership application earlier. Afalia was officially welcomed as the 35th member of the interventionist organisation, which spreads liberty and democracy via interventions and liberations. The main goals of the ICE are to end dictatorships, oppression and reduce the suffering of people, especially those dealing with poverty and hunger. Five members of the ICE-Itailia, Arthurista, Emmeria, Eagleland and Phonencia, formed the Coalition of Democratic States which defended Afalia from invasion by Titanica during the war earlier this year.

This evening the security secretary Alice Cook made a statement to the Commons announcing Afalia's membership. Plans to join the ICE had been made the prime minister and foreign office sometime in advance, but the official application was put on hold until the new Afalian armed forces had been built up. The news was met with mainly cheers in the Commons, from the Progressive Conservatives. The security secretary said, 'This is a great day for Afalia. Not only is our position in the world stronger and more secure than ever, our goals in foreign policy will be better met when we have our greatest friends and allies, behind us and beside us.'

The prime minister remarked that the country could now start to repay the organisation for all the help it had done. He added he was proud Afalia was a member and looked forward to furthering the goals of the ICE as a full member, taking part in interventions and the liberating of oppressed peoples across the globe.

The Afalian Socialists have been largely divided over the news of Afalia's accession to the organisation. During the statement in the Commons, socialist MPs both cheered and booed the news. The leader of the opposition Martin Jones, whose official policy is to abolish the armed forces, in strong opposition to the dominant Third Way faction of the party, said he accepted the news, but would withdraw if his party was elected. The decision has, according to our political Louise Watson, brought tensions between the traditional socialist and Third Way factions of the party to a new high, with one socialist MP warning, 'of a very real risk of a split.'

Foreign policy commentators have largely praised the move, especially in the face of potential future Titanican aggression, which Afalia now looks secure against. Questions have been raised on how Titanica will react to the news. Flash opinion polls conducted by the Blackdon Daily Journal suggest that the decision to enter the ICE has been an overwhelmingly popular one.


The Security Secretary announcing the news today in a parliamentary statement to the Commons.

INSIDE-Afalia Joins ICE: Special Pages 4-8, Leading Article: A Brilliant Move Page 9, Flash Poll 10, More Socialist Woes 11,

[Afalia]

FOREIGN SECRETARY RULES HIMSELF OUT AS PROG CON LEADER
6th July-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

The foreign secretary was until now, viewed as the heir-apparent to Progressive Conservative leader and prime minister Christopher Kelly.

THE FOREIGN SECRETARY Jonathan Charles ruled himself out of becoming Progressive Conservative leader in an interview earlier today. Speaking to this newspaper Mr. Charles, who has served as foreign secretary throughout Christopher Kelly's premiership, said he had no ambitions to become party leader or prime minister and would not run when Christopher Kelly retires. Charles was viewed by both the Progressive Conservatives and outside commentators as the unchallenged heir-apparent to the party leadership.

The declaration from Mr. Charles has thrown into question who is most likely to become leader with website AfalianPoliticalBets.com seeing a sharp increase in activity tonight. Commenting on the news the Prime Minister said that Jonathan Charles was a brilliant and wise foreign secretary, who would do well in any high office. It has been clear for sometime that Kelly had been grooming Charles to take over from him when he retires, (whenever that may be), and would undoubtedly have his backing in a future leadership election. A loyal Kellyist, Charles expanded on his decision saying, 'My dream was to become foreign secretary. I fulfilled that dream when the prime minister appointed me to the foreign office in 2004 and since then I have had the honour of serving my country. But that is where my ambitions end.'

Whilst the Progressive Conservatives are not a factional party, Kelly's ideology and premiership have led to some accusations that the party has been dragging a little too far to the left, despite its centrist and liberal conservative ideals. Prominent candidates now in the limelight to succeed Kelly whenever he retires from the post include the Chancellor Elizabeth Jackson, a more right wing politician who doesn't subscribe to many of Kelly's views, the education secretary Katie Hewitt, a Kelly loyalist, the security secretary Alice Cook, another Kelly loyalist and a whole host of other cabinet members.

[Afalia]

KING TURNS 91
8th July-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

The King attended a charity event yesterday evening, before birthday celebrations today.

THE KING HAS celebrated his 91st birthday as millions across Afalia and the empire celebrate. A bank holiday in Afalia, millions of Afalians took part in street parties, concerts and sporting events as part of the celebrations-many more than last year. Commentators have suggested this is an effect of the Titanican war and the leadership of the King during the period. Tomorrow at a special meeting of both houses of parliament in the House of Peers-the King will give his annual birthday address.

King George began his day, according to Blackdonian Palace, celebrating privately with his family before attending the Royal Birthday Concert in Regiment Park in Blackdon. The King reportedly spoke and dined privately with his granddaughter and heir to the throne, Princess Amelia, this evening, ahead of her marriage to Prince Frédéric of Lyncanestria in a few days time.

[Afalia]

GREATEST AFALIAN SPEECHES: NEW SERIES BEGINS TOMORROW
8th July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

The first Afalian Prime Minister, Michael Rogers, was heralded by this paper in 2002 as, 'the greatest Afalian orator ever.' Numerous Rogers speeches will be included in this special upcoming series, every day.

THE JOURNAL IS pleased to announce the beginning of its new series-'Greatest Afalian Speeches', which begins tomorrow. With each new printed edition of the paper daily a new speech by an Afalian will be included and analysed. The speeches included will range from the downright bizarre and entertaining to moments of oratory that changed Afalian society, the country and the world. From prime ministers to comedians, film stars to philosophers-our new series, printed each day, will gather together the greatest Afalian speeches of all time.

[Afalia]

NEW NUCLEAR STATION OPENS AMIDST PROTESTS
9th July 2013-1 Chand-Afalis' Most Popular Newspaper

THE NEW GRANVILLE nuclear power station, Highton Plant, officially opened today amidst protests by environmentalists and anti-nuclear groups. A new nuclear power station for the industrial city of Granville was first approved by the government in 2001, although it took until 2003 to find a contractor to build Highton plant. The endless delays in the construction of the plant led to five different energy secretaries overseeing the project and four different project managers failed for incompetence.

In a statement in the Commons today the Energy and Environment secretary Robert Palmer described the opening of the plant as, 'a great relief to myself and my department, and the people of Granville.' The Energy & Environment Select Committee described the Granville station as, 'a necessary plant to equip Afalia for its future energy needs,' but damned the process of completion of the project as, 'some of the worst incompetence and mis-management of a government backed project in years.'

Environmental groups not only criticised the nuclear plant in general but public spending waste which resulted from its difficult path to completion. The station will service as many as a million homes in six months time and will expand its coverage further in the future. The department of energy and the environment today confirmed and committed themselves to building future nuclear power stations as the key to Afalia's independent and clean energy future, but said new legislation in the next parliamentary session would tighten regulation.

[Afalia]

CONTROVERSY SURROUNDS NEW BLITZEN BOMB FILM
11th July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

A NEW FILM scheduled to begin production in a few weeks concerning the Blitzen Bomb attack on Blackdon has been criticised by a number of groups and organisations. Currently in pre-production, the new Carson Cook film entitled 'Blitzen' is the first of many new post-war movies surrounding the Blitzen-1 bombing during the Titanican war. With shooting beginning only seven months after the Titanican attack, a number of groups today condemned the film as insulting-both to families of the victims and the entire country.

The Afalian Christian Society described the film as horribly and brutally insulting, whilst the Centre for Social & Scientific Studies, a left-wing think thank, said the film would only serve to, 'bring pain and suffering, as well as bad memories, to those trying to recover. This film will be released far too soon for the mentality of the Afalian public at this time.' The Centre for Sensible Censorship said that the film only served to prove that a limited form of censorship was needed.

Director Carson Cook, who has also served the chief screenwriter for the project, said that comments from pressure groups to try and shut down the film were, 'pathetic attempts at censoring free speech.' Mr. Cook, well known for a number of controversial films amongst his large filmography, has been a strong proponent of the very liberal laws regarding cinema in Afalia since he first started in the industry.

Fairfax House and the Prime Minister have tried to avoid getting dragged into the row, but a special appearance on news show 'Demand For Answers' on ABC tonight will probably force the Prime Minister to comment. The programme is broadcast live from nine tonight on ABC 1.

[Afalia]

HARTLEY CORPORATION PROPOSES RYDO CHAIN TAKEOVER
13th July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

THE HARTLEY CORPORATION has made a bid to takeover independent restaurant chain Rydo, the Journal has learnt. Hartley Corp. which owns more than 100 Afalian and international businesses, proposed a takeover of the restaurant chain in mid-June but was refused. However it proposed the offer again around two days ago as the latest quarterly financial report for Rydo showed that it had suffered a second consecutive quarter of falling profits and rising costs.

Increasing financial difficulty with the chain has seen numerous corporations hint at the possibility of takeovers, but Rydo has so far dismissed claims it is part of any discussions. The CEO of Rydo Martin Bilk made a statement last night where he said he would do all he could to keep Rydo independent and serving its customers free from multinational interference. In response to the news that Hartley Corp. had made a second offer of takeover, a spokesman for the corporation said, 'Hartley Corp. can confirm today it has made two offers to takeover the Rydo restaurant chain. Our first offer was rejected but we have not, so far, heard word from Rydo on our second and current offer.'

Shadow business secretary Kieran Brook said that Rydo was clear evidence that Afalia's economy was not strong enough. The Afalian Socialist MP, speaking to reporters said, 'Whatever claims the Prime Minister and ProgCons may make, it is clear the economy is not nearly as strong as it should be and because of this businesses are failing. But business secretary Lionel Devon said that Afalia's economy was strong and stable and that businesses failed due to a number of reasons.

[Afalia]

PRIME MINISTER HINTS AT CABINET RE-SHUFFLE
15th July 2013-1 Chand-Afalia's Most Popular Newspaper

The Prime Minister is enjoying unprecedented popular support, but many suspect he will retire from the party leadership before the 2016 general election and give his support to a loyal supporter.

THE PRIME MINISTER has hinted at a potential cabinet re-shuffle by the end of this month. Speaking to ABC Newsnight late last night from Fairfax House, Christopher Kelly hinted at a re-shuffle within the cabinet, which he said would be thorough. The last re-shuffle took place a year and a half ago and a number of commentators have suggested changes have to be made. The news comes despite latest opinion polls, showing the Progressive Conservatives on top, with the Afalian Socialists struggling to make in-roads as Kelly nears his ninth year of his premiership, expected to continue until 2016.

The last re-shuffle saw right wing ProgCon Chancellor Alice Cook, often at loggerheads with Kelly, moved to the ministry of security where she remains today. Our political editor suggested any changes Kelly makes will have to keep the peace between the majority liberal wing, which the Prime Minister leads, and the minority, but vocal more traditional ProgCon faction, lead by Cook. The traditional faction has become increasingly vocal in recent months following the conclusion of the Titanican war.

Afalian Socialist MPs have suggested the news that Kelly is considering a re-shuffle shows he is not as strong and secure as public opinion and commentators suggest.

[Afalia]

[Afalia]

[Afalia]

Security Secretary Promises Further Defence Expansion


THE SECURITY SECRETARY Alice Cook has promised a further expansion of the armed forces in a press conference outside the Ministry of Security today. Cook said that up to billions of Chands worth of the interest free gifts from Itailia and Eagleland would be spent on a new expansion and spending programme including the purchasing of many DPRs. The MoS stated in a subsequent press release that the majority of the spending would be spent on the navy.

The latest announcements coincided with fresh protests from the anti-war and anti-nuclear group Disarm, who staged a sit in near MoS headquarters in Kingwalk before being forcibly removed by police. At least two arrests were made. This morning leader of the opposition and Afalian Socialists Martin Jones confirmed that he would be joining Disarm in their march through the capital later today. The march is scheduled to make its way through Royal Blackdon Lane, past Kingwalk Bank before convening on Parliament Green. Extra police have been called off holiday to make sure government buildings and parliament are safe.

Disarm's leader Melanie Bentley today said that, 'Voters will reject this government's sudden militarism and knee-jerk war reaction at the ballot box in three or four years time. We deserve an election today.' The membership of Disarm has been growing since the creation of the armed forces in April. The Security Secretary addressed the comments of Bentley in her press conference today, when she said, 'I respect Disarm's right to protest peacefully. I disagree with Ms. Bentley and her views and believe Afalia must be defended for the future. I also believe the public know this and will back us at the election. If Mr. Jones decides to go down the disarmament path he will find his party suffering at the ballot box.'

Last week's re-launch of RAS Michael, the fourth Archangel Defence Programme submarine brought violent clashes between Disarm supporters and police, after some protestors attempted to gain entrance to Port Lucia where the submarine was docked.