((My first position in government and I have to deal with a lynch mob going after the Head of the Corps of the Gendarmerie. Great.
))
I admit that I am almost shocked by the accusations being made against Herr von Schwaben. His police forces made one mistake, which he apologized for, and everyone jumped on him. It is indeed a travesty that innocent men were shot down by the Corps of the Gendarmerie, but at least he owned up to it. I'd be more upset if he had tried to hide it from the Reichstag. As for claims that he clings to power, what man wouldn't be offended when the integrity of his work is questioned. Everyone here is overreacting and should show more respect to the man. Nevertheless, Germany is a republic and it is difficult for any man to perform his job when the entire government is against him. Keeping an unpopular man in the position would only weaken the Gendarmerie's position and ability to handle the internal security of the nation. As such, I feel that as the newly appointed Minister of the Interior I must ask
Herr von Schwaben to step down as Head of the Corps of the Gendarmerie. I also ask that the Reichstag treat Herr von Schwaben with respect befitting someone who has done nothing but be loyal to his country. One mistake should not condemn a man for life. For now I will take up the duties of the Head of the Corps of the Gendarmerie until a suitable replacement is found. I will keep the Chancellor's recommendation in mind. Anyone who feels themselves capable of managing the position can feel free to consult me on the matter.
As for the proposed legislation, I must
abstain concerning the Chancellor's proposal to
ban duelling. I admit that duelling is a most violent method of settling disputes, but banning it outright may encourage men to settle disputes through more underhanded methods. Perhaps instead duelling should be more heavily regulated, such as forcing participants to duel with fencing swords with blunted tips to ensure no blood is spilled and where striking a hit would simply decide the matter.
Concerning Herr von Bismarck's
Sanctioned Behaviour Bill, I must also
abstain. While I fully support the idea behind it, I feel that at the moment it is too vague, which will only encourage abuse of the legislation. A clear outline of what is considered negative behaviour must be determined first before this piece of legislation be passed.