MHOC: THE WEEK SATURDAY 11 JULY 2015
/R/MHOCPRESS
Timanfya: “I did not intend for MHoC to last this long.” P.6 Budget day Zoto888 presents Broad Left budget P.2-3
Speaker election P.4
Your Q&A with Timanfya
Thank you, Mr Speaker The last time these words will ever be
At the beginning of the week, it became
uttered to /u/Timanfya, who resigned
apparent in a comment on the weekly
on Sunday from the Office of Speaker
update that a mysterious post was to be
of the Model House of Commons.
made on Sunday. There were many
Since MHoC's foundation, timanfya
theories, but the prevailing thought was
has been the faithful Speaker of the
that it may be the Timanfya's last as
House, with assistance from his dutiful
Speaker. He didn't refute the idea, but
deputies, and is one of the most well
now it is clear. On Tuesday, as well as
P.11
liked and respected individuals in the
the opening of the Lords subreddit
International News:
community. He stated as one of the
(/r/MHOL),
reasons for his departure 'my life
nominations for people who wish to be
outside of MHoC is very busy and I
Speaker – see page 4 for a run-down of
have little spare time and something
potential candidates. Timanfya will be
had to give - and it had to be MhoC',
staying on as Head Moderator to help
but he also said that 'whilst there have
guide the new Speaker, but whether or
been highs and lows, I wouldn’t change
not they will match their predecessor is
the past year and a bit.'
yet to be seen.
P.5-7
Terrorists raid parliament
Response to B079 turns violent P.9-10
Green Conference RandomPhotographer brings you the latest
Far left take power in Canada Djenial reports as the red-green coalition move into office P.8
Australia head back to the polls Inactivity prompts election; phyllicanderer reports from Sydney P.9
JamMan35 An economic perculiarity P.12
Kerbogha Who are the cavaliers? P.14
Timanfya opened
the
DJENIAL
5 BUDGET JULY 2015 BUDGET JULY 20 JULY 2015 BUDGET JULY 2015 BUDGE
Zoto888 releases July 2015 Budget: Reports, Opinions and Analysis After a number of delays due to
worsening
real life commitments, on Sunday
deficit,
Chancellor
others were
of
the
Exchequer
Zoto888 presented his and the
excited
to
Broad Left Government’s first
see how the
budget.
first
It was widely anticipated across
unadulterat ed left wing budget the country
very pleasant surprise and a
the house not only due to the wait
has
could
return to ‘fiscal responsibility’,
but because it was the first major
benefit working people, public
however concerns were raised
insight into what the Green,
services and the environment.
about the effect of such a rapid
seen
for
decades
Communist, Socialist and Labour coalition had in store for the
He did not disappoint - no
United Kingdom over the course
member was left unsurprised by
of this parliament. People up and
the announcements. The key
down the country were watching
talking point was the complete
with
the
elimination of the budget deficit
Chancellor outlined his proposals
- the first reading of the budget
that would ‘form a future that will
runs a current account surplus of
be Better for Britain’. Some
£414 million. Members across
feared higher taxes, excessive
the house, in particular many
government
Conservatives, hailed this as a
keen
interest
spending
as
and
a
Key Announcements Deficit eliminated, surplus of £414 million. Upper rate of income tax set to 50% and additional rate set to 55%. VAT increased to 25%, will fund a ‘citizens dividend’ of £150/month for all working age adults. Personal allowance increased from £12,000 to £15,000. Corporation tax collected at point of profit distribution to shareholders and stakeholders, so profits reinvested are tax free. Dividends up to £400,000 taxed at 30%, £40100,000 at 40%, >£100,000 at 45%. Carbon tax implemented at £7.50/tonne CO2 equivalent, increasing at £2.50/year up to a maximum of £20/tonne. Air passenger duty and climate change levy abolished. 14% pay rise for all NHS nurses, a 25% rise in carer’s allowance and 550 new GPs hired.
change
of
the
UK’s
fiscal
situation - JamMan35 notably commenting that a £88bn, 4.8% of GDP adjustment was not only just rebranded austerity but
‘a
reckless
attempt
to
outflank the right-wing, which isn't supported by sound policy’ - and how it would befall the taxpayer, given the Chancellor has not cut back any spending to produce the surplus, indeed quite
the
opposite
with
a
government spending increase of over £150 billion. In his statement the first ever Socialist
Chancellor
announced
that
gleefully
this budget
would ‘pull more of the lowest earners out of tax, increase taxation on luxury goods, and give more to those who work long hours to provide for their families’,
quoting
that
‘the
marginal rates of tax on the poorest 30% are higher than those on the top 0.5% of earners.’ As expected the tax
rises were abundant, with the upper
25% rise in carer’s allowance, the
rate of income tax raised to 50% from
hiring of 550 new GPs and an
45% and the additional rate set to 55%
increase in the budgets for social care,
from 50%. In one of the biggest
capital investment and resolving the
surprises the rate of Value Added Tax
internal
- a tax traditionally disliked by the left
cocktorpedo restated his department’s
for its regressive nature - was raised to
aim to ‘eliminate crime in both a
25% and in doing so will create an
preventative
extra £60 billion for the government to
through reversals to cuts in policing
play with, costing the average person
and
£520 a year. Meanwhile duties on
psychologists,
cigarettes and tobacco products were
officer training and pay and carrying
raised by 10%, a carbon tax at
through the reforms to drug policy
£7.50/tonne
from the largely successful Drug
CO2
equivalent,
increasing at £2.50/year up to a maximum
of
£20/tonne
was
announced, with air passenger duty and the climate change levy both abolished.
deficit.
legal
Justice
and aid,
Secretary
curative hiring
reforming
way’ more prison
Reform Act. Transport Secretary peter199 focused on his plans to improve the railway network by refurbishing and replacing the UK’s rolling stock assets with a
It was immediately announced that
total of 374 new trains that will
this money would directly fund a
‘reduce overcrowding, fares, journey
‘citizen’s dividend’ of £150 per month
times and carbon emissions’ as well as
to every working age adult in the
new rail links in Wales and Scotland.
country which the Chancellor claimed
Energy
would produce an overall progressive
eagerly restated his commitment to
effect, that when combined with an
meet the government’s ambitious
increase
a
climate change targets, announcing
restructuring of Jobseeker’s Allowance
substantial increases in investment
- now renamed ‘Unemployment pay’ -
into offshore wind and research and
would allow 96% of the population to
development budgets for both nuclear
enjoy
and tidal power, as well as earmarking
in
an
child
increase
benefit
in
and
disposable
Secretary
NoPyroNoParty
income. He was also quick to point out
£800
that there is no national insurance in
Growth Fund for green projects.
MHoC, so the tax rates are far lower
Alexwagbo took the opportunity to
than it would otherwise seem.
announce more investment to be
Health Secretary DrNyan heralded the great strides the government have made towards creating a better health system for the people of Britain including
ending
‘crippling’
PFI
contracts, decentralising the health
million
from
the
Regional
placed in Welsh public services and Djenial spoke of the Communities and Local Government Department’s commitment to devolution of powers to regions within the UK and local councils.
system, bringing social care under
The budget is viewable in full here
NHS control and enhancing provisions
with a breakdown of the figures here.
for sex reassignment surgery. A 14%
The budget continues to be debated
pay rise for ‘all qualified nurses’ was
and updated, keep following the
announced
MHoC Press for details.
to
reflect
the
tough
conditions they work in, alongside a
NOPYRONOPARTY
REACTION Members give their thoughts in 50 words or less.
Rlack “This budget is a wonderful component of this government's commitment & so far successful path towards Market Socialism & the social economy, and I'm overall pleased with the result. The most impressive component for me is the Citizen's Dividend, that has reformed VAT from a regressive tax to a progressive tax.”
demon4372 “In fairness, the budget wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But my expectations were so low, that it isn't exactly hard. There are some good ideas, I particularly like the increased UKSA budget, however I am still unsure on the VAT increase and am disappointed with the trickery with defence spending, and disappointed that real defence spending is around 1.7%, missing out NATO obligation.”
NoPyroNoParty “A good deal for people up and down the country, their families, their livelihoods and their planet. A clear show that this government are prepared to make the real changes necessary for a better, fairer and more sustainable future.”
CTION SPEAKERSHIP ELECTION SPEAK ELECTION
Who’s in the running?
A period of 4 days has been given for self-nominaions for the role of Speaker of the House of Commons, with a buzz of excitement and perhaps trepidation surrounding who has, hasn’t, may or may not put themselves forward in that time. With applications open until 10pm Saturday it’s still all open but we take
NOPYRONOPARTY
a look at some of the likely and/or already declared candidates.
Speakership Odds and Analysis
Cocktorpedo RomanCatholic
RoryTime Initially ruling out a campaign with a passion later to change his mind ‘after talking to his dad’, Rory is the longest serving and most prominent deputy speaker, known for being the mastermind behind MHoC’s voting system and elections (not without some controversy). Promises stability as well as an end to the constitutional committee, an international electoral roll and other changes. Bookie’s favourite.
Evens
Evens wwesmudge A backbench UKIP MP known for model sports bodies such as /r/ModelUEFA, claims that ‘sitting in different political positions for various different political issues’ proves he is a ‘man of reason and compromise’.
10-1
JackWilfred Has not confirmed an application, but is strongly rumoured to be interested. The Lib Dem Shadow Equalities Secretary’s pedantry and attention to detail may annoy some but they could prove useful qualities for a speaker.
20-1
The other deputy speaker running in the contest, hardworking but controversial amongst right-leaning members of the house due to supposed bias. Claims to be running on a platform of ‘hire more deputy speakers, make MHOC self sufficient, then resign and rejoin the greens’. His manifesto will be one to look out for.
2-1
Djenial
2-1
The Government Chief Whip and keen editor for MHoC: The Week was the first to announce his candidacy. One of the selfproclaimed less well known candidates yet probably one of the most active parliamentarians, seen in nearly all debates.
8-1
GeoSmith16 UKIP’s Shadow Culture Secretary is of MHoC’s most unique members, serious one minute and zany the next. Given he states he shall be running on a ‘blood and soil ethnic genocide platform’ it may be safe to assume which category his speakership campaign fits into.
100-1
Also not without controversy, holding a wide array of titles including the Leader of the Pirate Party, Pope, MhOir Labour Leader and more. An everpresent force in model politics, uniquely announcing his candidacy with a video.
10-1
Sephronar
The Shadow Foreign Secretary and former Chancellor, known for his quirky bills such as Tesco nationalisation, claims it’s ‘time for a real dictatorship’.
10-1 15-1
Duncs11 The Shadow Home Secretary was rumoured to be interested before being appointed Deputy Lord Speaker, but has not yet ruled out running for the top job.
25-1
Jas1066
The infamous shadow DEFRA Secretary, well known for his idiosyncratic remarks in the chamber including questioning the fact that 1+1=2, is standing ‘to spice things up a bit’. He may seem like the joke candidate but his cult of personality may get him somewhere.
150-1
The ex-speaker spills all! – Your Q&A with Timanfya No more secrets, it’s brutal honesty time – Timanfya answers the questions you’ve always wanted to know the answer to. /u/Timanfya
this motion). I was fairly right wing
impossible to get things changed so
account only came into existence
on TSR and so I’d worked on
one day, something happened, that
when the /r/MHOC did, do/did you
legislation that cut foreign aid (I
was the final straw. I made my own
go under any other username?
disagree with a cut in foreign aid
MHoC on reddit to directly rival
now) and I also helped someone on
the TSR one and to create a place
legislation to force people to pay
that didn’t have the flaws of the
back benefits with a new additional
TSR MHoC - I believe we have
tax (again this is something I now
achieved
disagree with).
further in just over a year than they
/u/tyroncs:
The
Answer: I didn’t have a reddit account previously; throughout my time as Speaker I only ever had /u/Timanfya. However, I do now have another account - for certain things.
/u/Demon4372: Did you actually
/u/NoPyroNoParty: Have you ever wished you hadn't made MHOC?
send nudes to Morgsie?
find out who did. /u/SPQR1776: In what order did
made
you rank the candidates in the by-
angry,
frustrated
and
caused high levels of regret and despair.
However,
the
whole
have
come
have in 10 years.
you vote for in each election? Answer: I don’t have the data from
There have been times where it has me
We
/u/athanaton: Which parties did
Answer: No I did not. However I did
Answer: The honest answer is yes.
this.
election?
the first general election but from memory I voted Conservative; I also voted Conservative for the second election. I believe I voted
Answer: I voted based on activity,
UKIP in the first by-election and
eagerness and potential; the votes
my votes in the 2nd by-election are
from 6 onwards were harder to
answered in a different question.
order. From 1 to 13, my votes are as
For the third general election I
follows: HaveADream, m1cha3lm,
voted for Labour. I’m not sure who
/u/TheDomCook: We know that
Baron_Benite,
I will vote for in the next election.
you were active in the MHoC over
AlbrechtVonRoon,
at TSR, in which party were you
OnABeachWithBS, MagnaCartaaa,
and what kinds of legislation did
Brotherbear561, trident46, Mepzie,
you submit?
Crazyoc,
experience and journey has generally been enjoyable and I still wouldn’t change the past year. All in all, I am very glad that I made MHOC.
Answer: The items that were in the
SPQR1776,
Goonersam
&
DavidSwiftie. /u/Fizzleton: Why the hell did you
items I had contributed to/written in
make this?
a sugar tax to fund healthier lifestyles for the young and a motion calling for more direct investment into combatting
cluster
headaches
(I
believe a video on reddit prompted
love the SDCN so much? Answer: I wouldn’t say I ‘loved’ the SDCN but I was pleased to see this
original wiki of /r/MHOC were both one way or another - the bill creating
/u/RomanCatholic: Why did you
party form from the remains of the CWL, the compromises achieved by both sides were pleasing to see
Answer: As many know I was part of
and I did think that it neatly fitted
the
was
into a niche slot on the MHoC
dissatisfied with the way it was run,
political spectrum; I also didn’t like
and most of the people who were
the general discerning attitudes
there at the time; it was almost
towards them and my opinion on
TSR
MHoC
and
I
the party went against what most
surprising how much time this can
Answer:
believed,
take up for example today (9th July)
everything that I’d like to see in the
I replied to 8 different people on
MHoC but the one thing that I would
Skype when I woke up at 5am and I
like to see is a Model European
already had a list of 4 or 5 things to
Parliament - I may begin work on this
do later - at 5am. Then when I got
soon.
which
was
probably
construed incorrectly. /u/RadioNone: Can you name your favourite and least favourite pieces of legislation?
home from work at 2pm I started
We’ve
/u/athanaton:
achieved
Who
are
nearly
your
Answer: Some of my favourites
doing various MHoC tasks - replying
are: B021 - Apprentice Training
to PMs, discussing things, looking
Act 2014, B025 - Reintroduction
into different things, replying to
Answer: I’ve spoken to hundreds of
of Grammar Schools Bill, B035 -
Skype messages and other various
people during my time as Speaker but
The Petition Procedure Act 2014,
bits and I am still doing that at
there are definitely some that have
B059 - Open Internet Act 2015,
(6pm) with more still to do. I just
stood out and are a joy to talk to. All
B090
cannot guarantee the amount of
of the moderators are great people
time anymore.
and I’ve come to know most of them
-
Cruel
and
Unusual
Punishment Equipment Embargo Act
2015,
B112
-
Friendly
Environment Bill and a myriad of others; the content and quality of all legislation has always impressed me.
/u/athanaton: Retrospectively, do you think you've ever made a biased
decision?
I
guess
alternatively: which decisions do you particularly regret?
/u/banter_lad_m8: If you had to join one party right now which would it be?
decision.
approachable
and
very well. There isn’t anyone that I dislike but the people I talk to most frequently are some of my favourites. I also look forward to meeting some of them in-person, I will endeavour to come to a meetup eventually.
Answer: I don’t think I have made a biased
favourite members?
I’m
very
have
had
/u/Djenial: Who was on your list for the Order of Timanfya award?
Answer: As of right now I would
countless people approach me with
Answer: As I said when the award
join UKIP as they are a very broad
ideas and suggestions over time and
winners were announced there was a
party and I believe I could work
I’ve often acted upon these ideas
long short-list, I shall include the
with most of their members very
and some people or people from
names of 5 more people who were
well. However I would also be
parties have submitted ideas that
close to winning the award - they have
extremely interested in joining the
have been accepted so this could be
been randomly chosen from the short-
Communist Party.
seen as bias but every decision was
list:
made without a hint of bias.
Athanaton,
/u/willo77:
Do
you
have
to
resign?
There are some decisions I regret, I
Answer: I definitely do. I’ve come close to resigning before but I’d never
felt
so
strongly
about
resigning than I had this time. I had a rule where I must be 100% sure that I wanted to resign for 7 days in a row - I did achieve this. There were also some things I needed to happen and people I needed to talk to before definitely
AlbertDock,
OllieSimmonds,
Demon4372
&
OKELEUK.
regret not being more proactive to
/u/Duncs11:
start with and I regret not banning
favourite moment/decision of your
some members sooner and there is
time as speaker?
one
that
I
do
regret
getting
shadowbanned (unintentionally). I do regret the way I handled the anonymous fptp election, it was very immature and pathetic; the Crony Salt Speaker chat was particularly tense that evening.
What
was
your
Answer: My favourite moment was probably the year anniversary stuff, it was such a nice evening and was a great way to celebrate and look back through the past year. One of the best things to do as Speaker is to tease. Therefore it should be no surprise
resigning. I resigned because I
/u/mg9500: What one feature do
that I really enjoyed announcing the
need some more free time, it is
you wish we had?
results of elections.
/u/ThatThingInTheCorner:
happened before. Fortunately
Who do you think has been
the party was able to come
the
back - albeit in a different
most
controversial
member?
form - and it was returned to a
Answer: I believe the most controversial has been Morgise. I
enjoyed
his
positive
contributions to the house but as time went on it deteriorated to a point of no return. I’d say he was the most controversial because I don’t think I’ve ever
level
where
it
no
longer
needed my direct input. So in conclusion I didn’t dissolve the CWL because I believe the Speaker should step in and attempt to revive it at least once - hence the creation of the Speaker’s Oath. /u/lorindushar: What is your
questions and requests for all
biggest
things about Morgise - there
regret?
were people who supported his
On Tuesday, the House of Lords was finally introduced to the Model World, after having a 95% approval rating in the acceptance vote. It is now a part of the constitution, to the dismay of certain members of the government and the House as a whole, for an unelected part of the legislation is seen as undemocratic to some.
received so many messages,
MHOC
House of Lords finally opens
related
The Parliament Acts will mean that in the last two months in government, the House of Lords will be able to keep a bill in committee
Answer: My biggest MHoC
stage until parliament is dissolved, meaning
related regret is that I wasn’t
that controversial bills and motions from the
dedicated enough to begin
government will be blocked by the House of
with; who knows where we
Lords as the Opposition will have a majority.
would be at today if there
In the real parliament, this doesn't cause a
you dissolve the CWL after it
weren’t
of
huge problem, as government terms last five
had so many DNVs and so
inactivity. This is my fault
years, but when two months makes up half
few active members?
because, initially, I did not
or if we are lucky, a third of the term, it
intend for MHoC to last this
could prevent key government legislation
long.
getting through.
ban and those who wanted to give him one more chance; I’ll certainly never forget him. /u/can_triforce:
Why
didn't
Answer: I have answered this question many times to variable
those
different people but I will
/u/AlbertDock:
explain it to everyone and I
Jacktri?
hope you will all understand the reasonings behind it. I
months
Are
you
In
the
last
month,
the
Speaker
also
announced 6 new Achievement Lords, that is someone who has gone above and beyond for
Answer: Maybe.
the
model
world.
A
further
3
new
firmly believe that the duty of a
/u/alexwagbo: Who do you
Conservative
Speaker is to ensure the house
think was the best debater in
/u/I_Miss_Chris_Hughton,
/u/RoryTime
is healthy and that help is given
your time as Speaker?
and
UKIP
to those that require it. The CWL were struggling and it is my policy not to let things die if I can help it - this includes parties. I did not want to give up on the CWL - regardless of politics - and so I set the ball in
Answer: We have seen some fantastic debaters over time. I think one of the current best debaters
is
bnzss
and
G0VERNMENT was always a very good debater.
Lords,
/u/Treeman1221,
a
Lord,
/u/Duncs 11 and a Liberal Democrat Lord, /u/Ajubbajub. This bring the Opposition Lords total of Lords to 28, with 26 Lords from the government (allowing for the Communists to take their 6 seats), and 5 other Lords from the Cavaliers and the Vanguard. It can also be announced that
motion to revitalise the party.
/u/AlbertDock, well respected Labour MP,
The MPs were going to be
Secreatary of State for Work and Pension
replaced and new leaders were
and Father of the House (depending on who
going to be elected - I did this
you
because I followed precedent
Achievement Lord peerage and assuming his
from TSR where this thing had
position in the House of Lords.
talk
to),
will
be
accepting
his
DJENIAL
AROUND THE WORLD Canadian Workers’ Party take power with Greens At the end of June, the Canadian
composed of the Conservative Party
There have been claims across the
Model
and the Democratic Party taking 6
country
of the other 9 seats.
undemocratic,
House
(/r/cmhoc)
of
held
Commons
their
second
general election. After continued inactivity
similar
to
that
of
/r/MhOir, a by-election causing the government to lose its majority and having just 3 bills discussed in as
There
was
surrounding
however the
leader
drama of
the
that
this
is
very
although
the
situation seems set to continue. Now the Canadian government is
Workers'
Party,
deliberating
whether
/u/Those_Crazy_Reds,
whose
/r/RMUN, but so far has not made any
from him as his account was less
because of the dual mandate rule.
than 3 months old. It essentially
Several members of the government
evolved around 'grandfathering' –
cabinet and other MPs are members
that is ignoring the set rules for a
of
Since it's formation in December of
historic
for
realms, joining the model world
2014,
/u/Those_Crazy_Reds
a
would mean these MPs would have
Parliament has had a rocky time.
previous account which met the
to choose which to remain in. At a
There
multiple
required age threshold. He had
time of when /r/cmhoc needs all the
constitutional crises, membership
previously been allowed to vote and
activity
movements and inactivity right from
serve, but the new Speaker was not
understandable that they do not
the
first
having any of it. This has led to the
want to lose valuable posters.
government consisted of the New
awkward position of two members
Democrat Party, the left
wing
of the cabinet, one of them the
the
Prime Minister no less, not having
Liberal Party, who occupy the
technically been voted into position
centre. However, the government's
(he was, but now is not an MP).
time was up and in order to try and get the sub going again, an election needed to be called.
the
Canadian
have
very
been
beginning.
Green-Socialist
Party
Model
a
The
and
tenure eventually had to come to an end, so an election had to take place. The election period lasted from the 22nd of June until the 28th of June, with the last day doubling up as the voting period, the same as the Australian
election.
After
a
reduction of seats from 32 to 20, a new government of 11 MPs was formed between the Workers' Party and the Green-Socialist Party, with the
Loyal
Opposition
being
case
– had
/r/MHoC
it
towards
join
election victory was stripped away
many months, the government's
movement
to
and
can
joining
other
get,
model
it
is
Thank you to /u/sstelmaschuk for verifying that this article is factually correct.
DJENIAL
Back to the polls for /r/modelparliament
God Fearing Terrorists Raid Parliament
The first week of July has seen
laws requiring ISPs to retain
the
of
metadata
and
On the night of the 21st of June, several
of
allowing law enforcement access
mini riots in both Belfast and London
Representatives prompt drastic
without a warrant. The Marriage
took place, resulting in the death of
action by the Governor-General.
Amendment (Marriage Equality)
DPG officer Matthew Jones. He was
Bill passed through the lower
killed when a bomb, located under
stagnation
modelparliament's
House
After proroguing Parliament on June 30 to try and hurry up the Greens Government's agenda, the Queen's representative chose to dissolve the House of Reps after some members of
the
executive failed to offer any advice on a course of action to begin
by-elections,
or
pass
legislation stuck in debate. During
the
first
from
session a
of
lack
of
understanding of parliamentary procedures,
and
activity
was
hampered by many members being occupied with IRL exams. This was best exemplified by the new
Prime
Minister,
/u/paulyt86, posting once in /r/ModelAusHR
to
swear
alliegance, and not posting again. The Government had promised much;
repealing
retention,
legalising
metadata same-sex
marriage, and creating a fair and equal month,
Australia. or
government,
In
model only
the year one
IRL of bill
passed; the Senate-originating Telecommunications (Interception
and
two
years,
house, but never made it to the Senate; the High Court Bill and a National
Integrity
Commission
bill, introduced by the Progressive Opposition Leader /u/Primeviere
republican Liberal Democrat MP Jack Wilfred's car was detonated at around 10pm in the evening. Beforehand, there had also been another car bomb, although nobody was harmed.
to bring oversight to the federal
The
public
upon
Ireland, as a result of the passing of the
dissolution, as well as a bill to
Pregnancy Termination Bill (B076) 3
service,
lapsed
streamline the election timelines for modelparliament.
modelparliament, both houses suffered
for
protests
began
in
Northern
months ago. These protests steadily grew,
with
UKIP
MP
/u/Olymyster911's car being mobbed
Out of the ashes of dissolution,
by people with blunt weapons. The
the model Liberal Party has finally
protesters
emerged. The conservative voice
directed their anger towards the Palace
of
slowly
of Westminster, where they managed to
gathered members, shepherded by
gain entry and raided the offices of
/u/Spritezade . Time will tell
UKIP and the Official Opposition.
whether they can win seats in a
There were unconfirmed reports that
model country populated by many
they had burned the Leader of the
IRL
Australia
left-leaning
has
citizens,
however,
their presence may be the cure for falling participation.
in
London
eventually
Opposition's coat, /u/OllieSimmonds, and that they had entered the office of /u/Olymyster911. apparent
that
It
then
became
they
were
holding
The election is due to be held on
hostage his secretary, but then bizarrely
August 8th, and voter enrolment
decided to release the secreatarty with
closes on July 11th. With the
their requests. Subsequently, specialist
Australian Progressives leading on
firearms officers entered the Palace and
the
vote
arrested the 3 terrorists, who now
according the latest ReddiPoll, the
remain in custody. It has been reported
enrolled
primary
next few weeks promise to throw up a little drama, and plenty of debate and electioneering.
Access)
that whilst this was taking place, the Chief
Whip
held
a
board
game
marathon where alcoholic beverages were
served,
although
these
are
unconfirmed.
Amendment (Data Retention) Repeal Act 2015, rolling back
PHYLLICANDERER
DJENIAL
Armed Response by Terrorists to B076 (Pregnancy Termination) Abortion bill extended to Northern
protests taking place on the streets
Government statement confirmed
Ireland prompts violent response
of
large
that these documents had been
from
officer
demonstration outside Belfast City
made unavailable to be accessed by
dead in London and violence in
Hospital overpowering the hospital
the implicated devices. No further
Belfast and Westminister Palace.
security, although the situation
security
was eventually brought back under
highlighted by the Government or
control, and multiple arrests were
any other analysts.
terrorists,
leaving
The fourth MHOC Government faced perhaps its greatest threat when a bill from the popularly known ‘Traffic Light Coalition’ passed in the previous Parliament
Belfast,
including
a
reportedly made. Some protesters marching claimed links with the UVF.
concerns
have
been
The future repercussions of these attacks
are
unclear.
Militants
known to have links with the Real
faced armed response from a
Many MPs were targeted at the
IRA claimed they were returning
group of terrorists, which resulted
riots in London, with many high
to action after naming the UK as
in violence in Belfast and the
level MPs in support of the bills
“morally corrupt”. Coupled with
taking of the live of on-duty DPG
being put in particular danger
protesters flying under the flag of
officer Matthew Jones in one of
from the protesters. The car bomb
the UVF, and it remains uncertain
two car bombings in London, with
that
how
the other car belonging to a
intended for JackWilfred MP, the
Parliament
Doctor working at a local abortion
submitter of the bill. Olmyster911
Northern Ireland in the future
clinic.
MP’s – another supporter of the
without significant backlash. This
bill - car was attacked and looted
prompts further questions over the
of
role
The Houses of Parliament in Westminister were also overrun, with former UKIP leader (and now deputy
leader)
olmyster911’s
secretary being held hostage by terrorists
inside
Westminister
Palace itself, but was eventually released with demands to repeal the
bill.
The
eventually
terrorists
apprehended
were after
killed
officer
items,
and
(as
been
raised
in
previous debate of the Bill over repercussions
over
the
bill’s
extension to Northern Ireland, but the extreme actions taken by some opponents of the bill took most by surprise. Abortion
in
Northern
Ireland were also attacked, with
for
influence can
the
exercise
devolution
to
UK over
play
throughout all the nations of the
hostage but later released. Also
United Kingdom.
there were reports that former Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative
Party,
OllieSimmonds MP’s coat was burned, and there were demands from the protesting crowd for
It
was
confirmed
that devices allowing access
to
confidential, possibly
and
sensitive,
documents the
The
bill
implemented
had
already
throughout
been the
United Kingdom as of the protest actions, and there are no plans for the Government to bend to the demands of those who opposed it violently.
SEYSTONE
had
perhaps fallen into clinics
already
much
mentioned) his secretary taken
them. had
was
Duncs11 MP of UKIP to confront
firearms officers were called in. Concerns
Jones
hands
terrorists,
but
of a
Leaders out, Principal Speakers in
June 10 Conference opened.
The
Policy procress reformed such that all policy decided democratically at conferences.
conference which has just came
hierarchical in line with Green
to its conclusion saw the roles of Leader and Deputy Leaders turned into Principal Speakers and Regional Conveners.
principals and represent the voice of the regional party on issues within the party.
June 14 Whigwham gives speech focussing on the importance of ecology. June 16 Changes to leadership structure proposed. TheInfernalRain elected as Recruitment Officer. June 19 Party votes to not create an LGBTIQ Greens grouping within the party. June 21 NoPyroNoParty gives speech focussing on the Greens’ achievements to date and engagement in politics. June 25 Party votes to adopt an official party song.
second
Green
Party
truly
democratic
and
non-
The change moves the party to
The change did not go down unopposed by any stretch of the
a position close to that of its
imagination
real life counterpart before November 2007, at which point
reaction from the party was a mixed bag, some high-profile
the real life party changed to a leadership system.
Green members voting No to the change with the results to the vote being so close it was nearly left to the roles of Leader and Deputy Leaders, but the Yes vote managed to scrape
The Principal Speakers shall ‘work together to coordinate the day-to-day administration of
the
party,
votes
and
elections; be responsible for ensuring the party remains truly democratic and nonhierarchical in line with Green principals; shall represent the party as a whole in debates, interviews and other public settings and shall participate in
however.
The
through by 9 votes to 7, with one abstain. Recently famed for his election stunt, alexwagbo simply stated; “Though I voted nay, I will reluctantly accept and learn to love this new structure.”
and
Both of the new Principal
other inter-party discussions on behalf of the party’.
Speakers reacted positively, with /u/whigwham emphasising the importance of grassroots
coalition
negotiations
The office of Regional Convener has been created,
democracy
and
‘the
green
commitment to nonheirarchical structures,’ and /u/nopyronoparty stating that
July 8
one for each region (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern
Peter199 elected Regional Convener for Scotland.
Ireland) where the region has a membership list of at least 10
July 10
members and when at least that number vote to have one, and
Party votes to make It’s Not Easy Being Green its official party song.
duly elect one. These replace Deputy Leaders. Regional
The success of this system of collective leadership,
ENTIRE TRANSCRIPT OF SPECHES AND MOTIONS
Conveners assist the Principal Speakers in the day-to-day running of the party, ensure that the regional party remains
unprecedented in the model world, will have to be judged over the coming months.
this is something that he wished he had changed when he was the party’s first leader.
RANDOMPHOTOGRAPHER
ERENCE GREEN CONFERENCE GREEN CO
Events of Interest
OPINION OPINION OPINION OPINION O
The Budget: An Economic Peculiarity
Victorian MHoC
When the government began to announce the budget, I was
growth, and while it might be a good thing, could help stall the
Bored of the usual MHoC
ready for a fight. Namely, a
recovery. Thirdly, the disposable
Communist claptrap? Don't
battle over welfare,
spending, various
income estimates don't include the indirect effects of many new
like the fact that you are using
nationalisations. What I was not prepared for was the strange and
taxes introduced, such as the carbon tax and the rather
on over to the Victorian Model
entirely unexpected document that was actually put forward.
mysterious extra £115bn received
deficit and
We start with the presence of a budget surplus, because any
from corporations. Finally, an extra £5bn is being put into foreign aid, money that only has
drama? Tired of the constant
a computer thingy? Then come House of Commons! There are 3 parties, the Conservative, Liberal and Irish Parliamentary Parties, all of which are going
an indirect effect on the UK economy.
to try and stay as close to their
If Osbourne's 1.7% of GDP adjustment arguably caused a double-dip recession, what will the government's 4.8% of GDP
Unlike MhoC, there will be
fiscal adjustment that is more than double the largest one made by Osbourne according to the OBR, which was 1.7% of
adjustment do? complaint here individual policies but simply note
into
GDP from 2010 to 2011. Most people believe even that was overly radical.
overall, it seems very hard to make the case that the document will do anything less than put the economy in a choke-hold.
discussion of this budget must stop and end there. Why was this strange? Because it represents a £88bn, 4.8% of GDP adjustment in the budget balance. To put that in perspective, that is a
The argument used by the government to justify this
I make no against any in the budget, that on the
real life versions as possible.
time progression, beginning in the year 1880. RomanCatholic is now stretching his mandate the
past,
being
'temporary' Speaker House.
Many
of
members
the the of
MHoC have decided to join parties that don't align with their actual views; the fun of being
in
an
laissez-faire,
imperialistic, colonialist
The motives of the government
government is driving a lot of
adjustment is that they are
are difficult to understand - is a
people to the Conservative
taking money from the richest and giving it too the poorest, who are more likely to consume. Their argument is that 96% of
'Market Socialist' really attempting to outflank the rightwing in such an extreme fashion? Do they believe so deeply in the
movement. This is however
the
stimulating effect of their policies
population
will
see
an
increase in disposable income. But it seems this can only be a minor force in the sea of other economic factors. Firstly, the effect of inequality on growth is seen as negative by the IMF, but
that they see a £88bn adjustment
early days, and if it can stave of the
inactivity
that
plagues
other model nations it could prove to be a lot of fun!
as insignificant? Or are the figures simply wrong? All I know is that there is something strangling about this budget, and it isn't the air tax.
only in a very minor fashion. Secondly, the pension tax is quite clearly going to result in a decrease in short-term economic
JAMMAN35
DJENIAL
The Death of Social Conservatism in the Model House of Commons? Did it ever live in the first place? The Model House of Commons is a place where radical opinions often clash, and where members of various parties are often at odds with each other. Recently, however, it has become clear that there is an area in which most of the House can reach agreement, in which there is not a balance of opinion; in social issues. The most recent (at the time of writing) example of this is in UKIP’s Bill 130, which has the aim of outlawing marriage between first cousins. Not only members of the parties in government vocally opposed it, but also MPs from the Liberal Democrats and Conservative Parties, UKIP’s allies in opposition. Some MPs went so far as to accuse the bill of being an attack on certain cultures within the UK. Another recent example was of a Conservative member opposition of gay marriage, which was branded as “disgusting” by some members of the House, and “regressive” by the MHOC Mirror. This all brings about the question on whether socially conservative views can be anything other than a fringe ideology within the future of MHOC, held by members of the Vanguard and by some in UKIP and the Conservatives, possessing anything more than little sway within the House. Other examples of recent socially liberal bills are Bill 68 and Bill 76, both of which passed. Bill 76, a bill to make abortions easier to access, found significant support within UKIP, and to a lesser extent was
supported by some in the Conservative Party. Bill 68, a bill to make sex changes easier to access – including for those under the age of 18 – gained less support from the right wing parties, with one UKIP and two Conservative MPs voting for it, although the bill would have passed without this support. Now, with the socially liberal parties collectively enjoying success with over sixty of the hundred seats in the House – and a clear majority in the previous Parliament - and many members of the more rightwards parties being liberally inclined, it really does seem as though social conservatism has had its day if this trend goes unchanged through future elections. With this conclusion, there is one question we must ask with the prevalence of a socially liberal outlook within the House of Commons; where can progressivism go, if there is nowhere else to “progress” to? Can we ever “progress” fully, whereupon we can ever stop, and if so, is this full liberalism? It is obvious that the answer to this question is different for the different parties, so when will we reach the point at which Labour or the Liberal Democrats say enough, but where the Socialists and Communists want to continue? Perhaps then we can have more intense debate over social values, where the current conservatives become the reactionaries, the more moderate liberals become the conservatives, and the radical liberals are the only pure “progressive” parties. SEYSTONE
Sneaky Labour Leadership Election The Labour Party has just had a secret Leadership election, mostly to prevent all of the hooha that surrounded the Green’s (as featured in the last edition) and what will surround the Conservative’s one when it eventually happens. The only candidate and incumbent Leader, /u/can_triforce, was voted back in as Leader, as was /u/DesertFox394 for Deputy Leader. The candidates for Deputy Leader were: /u/RachelChamberlain, who was voted in as the other Deputy Leader, /u/DesertFox, the incumbent, /u/Djenial, MP and Chief Whip and /u/DELB_, a new member of the party. Ex Leader /u/regioisomer made this statement when asked why he wasn’t standing for re a‘I don't think the party is plagued by the same circumstances that led to my election in the first place, so I feel my mandate has expired in that regard. That aside, I feel there are members who contribute more than I and deserve a place in the leadership more than I do. As for who I had in mind as ideal replacements, I'll just say I'm happy with the selection of candidates.’ He told the party that he was very happy with all of the candidates, and that he would be staying on as an MP for the party.
DJENIAL
Who Are the Cavaliers? You've all probably seen the lavender flair of the Cavalier Party. You may know minimal information on their platform. Most understand that they are royalists of some capacity. To many, though, the Cavaliers remain fairly cryptic. The party includes some notable members of MHoC, and contains two Peers; but because the party does not yet hold official status, it is difficult for many to find the relevant information. With a constitution being finalised, it seems to be an ideal time to inform MHoC on who the Cavaliers are. In short, they are a loose confederation of monarchists and traditionalists. The party seeks to defend the power of Her Majesty the Queen, as well as that of the aristocracy. But just as important to them is the good of the British people. This party is committed to, first and foremost, preserving the freedom of the British people, and British culture. Transcending the divides of left and right, Cavaliers put aside their differences to serve Britannia, her people, and her ancient institutions. While the Cavaliers have been subject to ridicule in the past, called such slander as "stuck up toffs", or an "ascended meme", there's no denying that they hold some of MHoC's more prominent members. Some of which include...
His Grace, MarquessOf_Salisbury, the Marquess of Salisbury: Previously known as AMan_Reborn, The Marquess is a hereditary Lord who has been battling the establishment as long as an establishment has existed. Calling out members from the Communists to the Vanguard, he has not been shy about his beliefs. His radical viewpoints and honest deliveries have attracted others to his ideology, leading to the formation of the Cavaliers. A formidable and competent ruler, he started the Cavalier flame, and has been its intreped leader ever since. Recently he has not been quite as active as usual, due to agricultural work in Iceland. His Grace, DevonianAD, the Duke of Devonshire: MHoC's first achievement Lord, the Duke has been well around the house before settling where he belongs, in the Cavaliers. He served as an M.P. for Labour before his work on the House of Lords endowed him with a Peerage. Known for his Youth Engagement Bill, DevonianAD is the Deputy Leader of the Cavaliers, and has worked tirelessly on the internal structure of the party. Recently, DevonianAD was announced to be a Deputy Speaker for the House of Lords.
Kerbogha: One of the commoners in the party, Kerbogha was a Ukip M.P. when the Cavaliers caught his eye. Leaving his Devon & Cornwall seat behind, Kerbogha joined the noble ranks of the Cavaliers. Known for his anti-dupe agenda, Kerbogha has pushed for creation of a committee for catching perps, and was critical of JackTri's return. It should be no surprise, then, that he is currently the Witchfinder General of the Cavaliers. Essenceptic: A troubled youth, who had run into scuffles with the law, Essenceptic found God and reformed his ways. Becoming Party Chaplain of the Cavaliers, Essenceptic has pushed for morality and understanding in society. He flirted with the idea of joining the Tories, before the Cavaliers presented themselves as an option. A staunch traditionalist, Essenceptic advocates that society retains its values, resisting the "metropolitan, liberal, elite, bourgeois bohemians." GunmetalSigma: GunmetalSigma, a defector from the Vanguard, has remained coolheaded throughout the Cavaliers' rise to the top. He believes in embracing the past, as well as working towards the future, which has earned him his position as Inquisitor of the Star Chamber. He's been a respectable member of the Cavaliers ever since. KERBOGHA
The Lighter Side of the House
BROUGHT TO YOU BY WINEREDPSY
Vertical 1. Indisputably the most important person in MHOC: He who shelters us from the harshness of the discourse, and to whom we owe everything we have, including our lives? 3. Cocktorpedos' ACTUAL portfolio 4. This idea 6. Demon4372's actual party affiliation 8. Badly named 10. Irretrievably lost 12. Probably the leader of every party right now 13. Gaggle of queers 15. Might burn down parliament
Horizontal 2. Me, my brother, my sister, my wife, my child. Is forever 5. Is not agreed upon by Jas1066 7. Diseased Wisecracking 9. Way too salty 11. General timeframe of any speakership plan 14. The Tu Quoque Crisis 16. The Liberal Press 17. The Tories, according to the Vanguard
MHOC: THE WEEK