(brought right in from old HQ)
The Free Republicans are a party committed to conservation of our freedom balanced with reponsibility to society as a whole. We believe in protection of minorities through a Republican--as opposed to Direct Democratic--form of Government.
Principles- Republican Government
To this end, we believe in proportional representation and geographical distribution of seats in Parliament. Direct Democracy can easily become the tyranny of the majority, and the government must work to ensure adequate protection of minorities exists. This includes a Judiciary strong enough to block laws that would trample the rights of the minority, and a Head of State seperate from the legislature to similarly act with veto power when necessary.
We also believe in federalism and decentralization of the Government structure in all functions that are not State-wide. This includes, but is not limited to: Education, Transportation, and Resource Conservation.
Responsible Capitalism
We believe in responsible Capitalism, with enough regulation to ensure those who are irresponsible are punished. We believe in protection of the environment without hamstringing our economy. We also believe in rigid enforcement of environmental regulations. We believe in free trade, we are against subsidies of any kind, and we believe that all industries that can make a profit should be privatized, as private business will always run more efficiently and support the economy long term more effectively than government-run industry. We believe in working towards European Community entry, if possible.
Responsibility for Choices
We believe in the freedom of the individual to make choices, but that a person must be responsible for those choices. In this, we believe that abortion should be illegal as a means of birth control. Only in extreme situations (life of mother, rape) should abortion be considered. We believe in a strong judicial system with violent criminals being justly punished. Capital punishment should be conducted--but by a more humane means than currently exists, and DNA proof must exist for any and all murderers executed. The only other acceptable crime for Capital Punishment is treason.
Strong, Yet Economical Defense
On matters of defense, we believe in a force sufficent for defense of our Home Island. Given we are an island nation, that means priority is given to Navy and Air power to protect approach to our island, a small, well-armed Army is sufficient. We believe in engaging in the UN and NATO. That said, we believe that fiscal responsiblity must be a primary concern as well. Our military must be economical as well as effective.
Conservation of Institutions and building soceity
We believe in separation of church and state, but not separation of church from state. Those who believe should have equal access to state facilities and the right to practice their faith in public unless said practice physically endangers non-practicers. Ethics are unavoidably part of legislation. Stating that ethics should not be legislated is fundamentally self-contradictory. The party subscribes broadly to Judeo-Christian values, but does not treat faith as a litmus test.
We also believe in the Government being able to utilize faith-based institutions, of all denominations and sects, to protect the underclass, educate, and encourage unity and community.
Inclusive
Because we are a FREE Republican party, we do not treat any one issue as a litmus test. We seek to be an inclusive party. If you are pro free-market, and subscribe to a center-right socio/political view, we think this is a home for you.