• We have updated our Community Code of Conduct. Please read through the new rules for the forum that are an integral part of Paradox Interactive’s User Agreement.
Status
Not open for further replies.
I say stay far away from them and let's instead keep pressure from the left on Labour to continue with the much-needed reforms.
Agreed. An 8 hour work day is not in the way of progress to justify regression to a monarchy or having the country once again tell people how they should worship.
 
Merely a 14 hour work day and STILL no minimum wage? Absolutely worthless and highly unacceptable.

The BNU is so confusing to me. On one hand, I feel drawn to them because of the promise of an 8 hour work day and securing the rights of the workers. On the other hand, they want to begin forcing religious values upon us again and are insane enough they wish to restore the monarchy.

I thought that about Trotsky in the last AAR, when his platform came in I voted against him.
 
Last edited:
The Election of 1864

As the Fifth Parliament of the British Republic came to a close politics in the British Republic seemed to have become more clearly divided than ever before with 7 Parliamentary parties (if the two Liberal blocs are counted as separate parties) split into two main blocs. However, much had changed within Parliament over the past 6 years and there were many new questions to be asked of the established order: what impact would Admiral Milne’s energetic British National Union make? How would the now divided Liberals fare at the polls? Could Labour make further gains in Parliament? Would the Tories recover from their disaster in 1858?

1864 seemed to be a definite cross road in the political history of the Republic.

xlabour.jpg


The Labour Party

Going into the election the Labour Party seemed to be, by far, the healthiest of the 3 main parties. The Liberals had been split down the middle and the Tories had suffered the defection of several MPs to the BNU, but Labour had maintained its integrity as a united and progress representative of the working class. The prestige of a successful time in government was also expected to strengthen Labour in the coming election. Whilst some doomsayers warned of the possibility of a major rebound in support for the right with the emergence of the BNU many more were hopeful that Labour could build on its already impressive strength within Parliament.

Party Leader: George Harney

GeorgeJulianHarney.jpg


Ever since the defeat of Feargus O’Connor a decade and a half ago George Harney has been the dominant figure within the labour movement as a whole. He played a huge role in shifting Labour towards the ideology of socialism and then an equally great role in preventing the party from drifting towards the extremes of anti-capitalism. Praised from many quarters for the successes of Labour during the past 6 years in government Harney is now committed to correcting what many regard as his greatest error – the failure to secure the 8 hour day.

Policies

Economic:

The average annual growth rate in British industry under the Labour government’s economic model was 2.3% higher than the growth rate under Disraeli and 3.2% higher than under the Liberal government before that. Britain must continue on this pace of industrialisation in order to keep our economy growing and to assist in creating better living conditions for hundreds of thousands in this country. We therefore propose that the mixed economic model be continued:

‘’We support a progressive taxation system in which the wealthiest shall pay taxes 20% higher than those on middle incomes who shall in turn pay 10% more than the poorest.

We should raise social spending to the highest level it can reach.

If need be the state should intervene in order to ensure that vital factories remain open so that workingmen do not lose their jobs.

We should use the state to support continued industrial growth in both Britain and Ireland.’’

The past years have shown us that tariffs may not be necessary to keep the budget balanced, our industries also proved capable of out competing foreign imports. It seems that the need for tariffs are not as great as we once thought – we should therefore restrict their use to situation in which they are direly needed.

The Labour government managed to pay off the Tory war debts whilst reducing the tax burden on the poorest. Labour is the only party that can ensure both a fair and effective economic system for the Republic.

Reforms:

We must continue our program of reforming the Republic to the benefit of all the people of Britain.

The Labour Party commits itself to not entering into any coalition that will not support the party in securing an 8 hour day for all workingmen of Britain.

No man should be forced to work for so many of his waking hours as millions are forced to around the country.

8 hours sleep, 8 hours labour, 8 hours leisure!

We must also finally set a minimum wage for a day’s Labour in order to combat the exploitative practise of some in employing workers on wages that are not enough to sustain them.

Britain must continue to stand at the forefront of progress across the world - economic, scientific, political and social.

Foreign Policy:
We must ensure that we can retain the trading influences we already have whilst also expanding them. However, it is imperative that we do not send the workingmen of Britain to die on some foreign field in the name of securing Asiatic lands or protecting one European Empire or another from an opponent.

The constant provocation of the United States against Britain means that the old alliance across the Atlantic is no longer viable so long as the slave trading, Union busting, Democrats maintain control over the White House. However, should Abraham Lincoln and his moderating Republican Party (a party that does not only oppose slavery but has made it explicit that it means to end the repression of labour and leftwing movements) come to power then we shall attempt to rebuild the Trans-Atlantic bonds between our nations.

xcon-1.jpg


The Conservative Party (Tories)

Following the disastrous election of 1858 and the loss of 12 Tory MPs to the BNU in 1863 the Conservative Party was down to just 127 seats in Parliament and Benjamin Disraeli was hanging onto the party leadership by a thread. In hopes of restoring electability the party had moved towards an idea of ‘One Nation Conservatism’ – attempting to find a balance between all social groups under a united banner.

Party Leader: Benjamin Disraeli

disraeli.jpg


One Nationism was the golden idea that kept Disraeli from being forced out of the leadership. His turn to the authoritarian in the aftermath of the Commune was pointed to by many as the main reason for the dramatic losses that party sustained in the 1858 election. The hard-liners seemed to be gravely weakened and the chances of a coup by the moderates against Disraeli seemed very likely. However, rather than attempting to use the Traditionalists for support, a group who were never wholeheartedly behind him in the first place, Disraeli turned back to the moderates. This repositioning was a major cause of the BNU defection – but in Disraeli’s mind the loss of 12 troublesome MPs was hardly a cataclysm for the party. Now the future of the Conservative Party and of Disraeli’s hopes of maintaining the leadership rest upon the Tories making strong gains in the coming election.

One Nation Conservatism:

"Two nations between whom there is no intercourse and no sympathy; who are as ignorant of each other's habits, thoughts, and feelings, as if they were dwellers in different zones, or inhabitants of different planets: the rich and the poor."

The people of Britain must come together; there must be peace between the different classes.

Policies

Economic:

Our economic policies must ensure strong growth in the economy and protect our people from harm. We therefore propose an economic regime that, unlike the Labourite system, promotes investment and entrepunuership but also provides state support when necessary.

‘’We propose a flat tax regime.

Social spending should remain as high as possible.

Tariffs shall be used to raise funds and to protect native industries.

If need be, to avoid unemployment, subsidies can be provided to ensure that industries remain operative if they start to lose money in the short term.

Subsidies for the expansion of industries may also be provided in order to fight unemployment.’’

Reforms:

Should the militant socialism of the Labour Left rise up and violently attack the beloved democratic institutions of the Republic then the Conservative Party shall not hesitate to respond to it. However, the dangers of violent communism seem to have subsided for now – meaning the harsh measures proposed in the past are not necessary.

Some of Labour’s reforms (notably their pension for widows) can be seen as positive in creating a more peaceable country and the Conservative Party shall therefore not support the removal of these reforms. However, if Labour continues to push for further reforms then they may well ruin our country’s prosperity by strangling commerce and investment, and perhaps more importantly threatening the Protestant work ethic that has powered our people to great successes. We therefore support no further social reforms at this time.

It is not social reforms that shall hold our country together but pride in our country, trust in our God and above all satisfaction in our work.

Foreign Policy:

Since Prussia’s rapid rise two principle enemies of Britain have emerged on the continents who threaten the balance of power – as in the past, France, and now the newly emerging North German Confederation.

In Europe a united Germany is a much greater risk to stability than a powerful France – it is therefore imperative that on the continent we do everything to prevent the Prussians from defeating the French and unifying all of Germany. Whilst a strong France is able to compete with Britain on many levels a strong and united Germany may well be able to dominate the continent and threaten British power around the globe.

Since the fall of Quebec French ambitions in the Americas have been thwarted whilst in Europe they now face a Prussian threat. But in India they remain a significant thorn in our side. We should work to counter the tentacles of the French Empire in India.

China is a major threat to our long held interests in Japan and Korea, not to mention our colonies in Indochina. Chinese power is a major concern and we should look to contain it as best as possible.

Finally we must detail our position on America. It seems likely that the anti-socialist Beckinridge shall secure a second term in the coming Presidential election. This means that under a Labour government our isolation from our old friends shall be ensured. Only under a Conservative government can our strong ties to Washington be renewed.

xbnu.jpg


British National Union (BNU)

Founded in 1859 as a working class group opposed to Labour and to socialism the BNU rapidly evolved and following Admiral Milne’s takeover of the party in 1862 the BNU has become a major force in British politics. With a not unsubstantial Parliamentary presence of 12 members already Milne is very hopeful that the Union can go on to significantly increase its share of Parliament, and more importantly – keep Labour out of government.

Party Leader: Admiral Alexander Milne, 1st Baronet

YCbNRwJZI1folZ07Oz2Yud.jpg


A famed and successful Admiral, Milne commands a great deal of respect amongst the Republic’s people. His takeover of the BNU did more than anything else to transform it into a mainstream political movement. By 1862 Milne had come to the conclusion that the Tory Party’s policy of ‘One Nation Conservatism’ was essentially little more than vague electoral jargon that meant nothing in practise. He hoped that the BNU, a movement born amongst the workers themselves, could provide a real alternative to socialism for the workers and could solve the ongoing class conflict in Britain. This approach to the problem was dubbed ‘’class collaborationism’’.

Policies

Economic:

The economic interventionism of the Labour government was one of its few successes. Therefore the policy of creating a mixed economy should be continued: the state shall intervene when necessary to continue to power industrial growth.

There should be a flat tax across the board for all citizens – this shall make taxation easier to collect and fair for all whilst also supporting private investment in a way that Labour’s ‘progressive’ taxation never could.

If necessary tariffs should be used to protect native industry and provide funds for government.

Over the past 6 years a tremendous amount of taxation has been taken from Britain and invested in Irish industry. Over that same period Ireland South of Ulster has witnessed its industrial output rise by two and a half times and the number of jobs provided by industry double. In comparison many areas of Britain itself have seen little industrial growth whilst even the best performing areas (the Scottish Central Belt and the London area) have not seen such rapid growth.

The state should provide encouragement for areas of the country with low industrial growth to develop. The age of British providing all the funds for Ireland’s industrial development should be brought to a close. Ireland’s industry must now be self supporting – only funds raised in Ireland should be invested by the government.

Reform:

There can be no peace between the British classes until the central working class demand of an 8 hour day is met. So long as the other parties, be they Labour, Liberals or the Tories, ignore the workers then anger that has led to the rise of that vile ideology of socialism shall not be dealt with.

The state should also provide a good pension for all retired soldiers and for all families affected by the loss of life in the armed forces.

Measures should be taken to fight back against the rising tide of socialism in Britain. Violent communist publications should be banned. The large community of émigré revolutionaries should be forced to leave this country. The IWA should not be allowed to hold conferences on British soil. Trade Unions promoting revolutionary action should be prohibited.

It is no secret that since the creation of the British Republic we have gone through a long period of internal turmoil and have lost respect from the many countries of the European continent. Republicanism has done no good for this country. Only the stability of the Monarchy can truly ensure our protection from the revolutionary rodents espousing communist dictatorship and class genocide.

The BNU therefore supports a restoration of the Monarchy: should the Union be elected we shall propose a series of candidates to the British people and the candidate with the greatest support shall become Britain’s new Monarch.

Foreign Policy:

Britain must prevent either the French or the Germans from coming to dominate the European continent. This requires a careful diplomatic game in which the power of the two is balanced against one another. At this time the best case scenario for Britain is a slight weakening of France – but not so much that Prussia can defeat her. We should therefore support any attacks on the periphery of the French Empire – in Italy – whilst we should act to support France should Prussia invade Alsace.

Overseas we must complete the job that Disraeli began in Indochina by establishing rule over all Vietnam. At the same time both the French and Portuguese should be opposed in India.

We must also make sure to protect our interests in the Sea of Japan from the Chinese and even the Russians.

With such great and expanded commitments Britain must undergo a major program of military expansion. Several new fleets of ironclad warships should be constructed whilst the standing army shall be expanded in size. At the same time wages for those in the armed services are to be increased.

Britain must be strong if she is to restore herself as the world’s most powerful nation.

xco-libs.jpg


Coalition Liberals

The 69 rebel Liberal MPs who left Palmerston’s leadership and allowed Labour to form a government in 1858 remain divided from the rest of the party. The main differences between the Coalition and the Independent Liberals are as follows:
• The Coalition Liberals prefer to work with Labour and the British Left above the Right
• The Coalition Liberals are more favourable of a flat tax rather than a regressive one
• The Coalition Liberals are willing to join a government engaging in social reforms and intervention in the free market
• The Coalition Liberals prefer isolationism in foreign affairs
• The Coalition Liberals hold strong to the party’s traditions as reformists

Party Leader: John Russell, 1st Earl Russell

Lord_John_Russell-1.jpg


Now in his 70s Earl Russell had had a long and fruitful political career. Most famous for founding the Liberal Party and being Prime Minister from 1847 until 1851 Russell was a long term champion of the Liberal Left. Palmerston’s flirtations with the Tories and refusal to work with Labour following the 1858 election led him to rebel with his supporters over to the Coalition government. Attempts to heal the wounds of the split over the ensuing 6 years failed and now in 1864 two separate Liberal parties are standing candidates – in many cases against one another!

Policies

Economic:

A flat tax, no tariffs and little intervention in the economy. These are the principles of the Liberal party; however we are willing to work with other parties who are more in favour of economic intervention – especially after the economic successes of the past years.

The government’s economic policies must be fair and prevent the bloated expansion of government.

Reform:

The Liberal Party is willing to work together with other parties to ensure that the necessary reform that will create social harmony are passed through at a moderate rate.

Foreign Policy:

Whilst protecting and expanding trading influences abroad, Britain should stay out of wars for the time being and should at all costs avoid entanglements in Europe beyond our current protection of Belgium.

xind-libs.jpg


Independent Liberal

After the reunification of the Liberals and the Whigs and then the gaining of some 51 MPs at the election Palmerston’s party seemed to be on course for a renewed era of success. However, Russell’s rebellion scuppered those hopes and left the Liberals even weaker than they had been prior to the election. The Right wing of the party continues to stand for older Whig values – free trade, the encouragement of enterprise, small government and a strong foreign policy.

Party Leader: Edward Cardwell, 1st Viscount Cardwell

2006BH7513_jpg_ds.jpg


When Palmerston died in 1862 Viscount Cardwell successfully defeated the challenge of William Gladstone to become the leader of the ‘Independent Liberals’. This victory seemed to solidify the divide between the Right and Left of the party as Cardwell seemed to be just as adamant as Russell that he would not climb down from his positions. However, at just 51 he was more than two decades younger than the opposing Liberal leader and presented a much fresher face to the voting public. His hope was to inflict enough losses of seats on the Coalition Liberals as to force Russell to return to the larger part of the party.

Policies

Economic:

A system of tax cuts for the enterprising should be reintroduced; there should be no tariffs and extremely limited intervention by the government in economic affairs.

A free market makes a free society.

The rising bureaucratism that Labour is already causing must be fought against!

Reforms:

We must ensure the protection of the essential freedoms of the British Republic from both the Far Right BNU and the Far Left Labour party and their various lackeys.

Foreign Affairs:

The policy of Liberal Interventionism devised by the late Lord Palmerston should be continued. Only a fool would believe isolation from continental affairs is a viable option at a time when Prussian militarism risks uniting all the German states whilst French military might threatens both the conquest of India and much of Europe. We must do all we must to ensure that the balance of power in Europe is maintained. This may require us to support both the wounded Russian Empire and the shaken Austrian Empire in keeping our enemies in check.

We should also look to restore ties with our friends across the Atlantic that were broken by the aggressive socialism of Harney’s Labour. This old alliance is integral to our security and must be restored!


The election is now open!

Every reader has one vote and may only vote once per election.

You may vote for:

Labour

Conservatives (you may also write Tories)

British National Union (you may also write BNU)

Coalition Liberals

Independent Liberals

NOTE – if you just write ‘’Liberals’’ and do not make it clear which Liberals you are voting for your vote shall not be counted

Please either bold your vote or place it in a separate post to make it easier for me to count them.

Polls shall close at 5 PM on Wednesday.

Good Luck!
 
I must vote Independent Liberal (changed from Tory), for they realize the importance of friendship with Washington.
 
Last edited:
Tori Tori Tories!

And Attack, please do not deprive us of a Disraeli vs Gladstone showdown, even though this is not OTL you cannot deny the awesomeness it had created in the 60s and 70s of the 19th Century!
 
Labour!
 
Independent Liberals!
Damn Cardwell for keeping Gladstone out, but I'm not voting for the man who scuppered centrist politics!
 
Well, let's vote Labour, ze worst party for England but ze vest for Germany :D:D:D:D

There will be plenty of time to redress what they do wrong this time. I'm sorry for Disraeli and Gladstone, though. Next time luckier, I hope.
 
You're called Capiatlist, for god's sake!

In fact, he's a double agent. The clue lays in the mispelling of the nick :D:D:D:D

PS: I'm sorry, but it seems as if the Joker is writting my posts today...
 
Status
Not open for further replies.