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Aurentina Today; Aurentina's Leading News Agency
Topic Started: Jun 7 2014, 07:02 AM (3,930 Views)
Battlion
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AURENTINA TODAY


Conservatives form Coalition with Prosperitas after election Victory!



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NEW PM: HAROLD HAWTHORNE

22:04 - 5th December 2026

ELECTIONS 2026 - The thrilling conclusion to the 2026 Parliamentary elections came tonight after Conservative Party sources leaked the news that a Coalition deal had been done with Prosperitas after an election delivered the Conservatives with a majority of four in the People's Chamber but short of a majority by 3 seats in the Senate.

Conservative Party Leader Harold Hawthorne had been leading the opinion polls as the most likely Prime Minister since 2024 when it was revealed that senior Social Democrat officials had been abusing their posts with allegations including acceptance of bribes, manipulating the cabinet, replacing state advisors with friends and family and abuse of expenses.

The Conservative Party won a total of 305 seats out of the 700 directly elected seats available, alongside the additional winner's bonus in the People's Chamber giving him 405 and the right to govern Aurentina as the next Prime Minister. However, falling short of the fabled 38% of the vote required to guarantee a majority in the Senate the Conservatives managed to poll 34.2% of the vote and gaining 35 seats in the Senate as a result.

The Junior Partner of this Coalition, Prosperitas has been in Coalition with the Social Democrats for 6 years came third place in the elections after losing 64 seats but remains above the 100 seat mark with just 116 seats in the People's Chamber. Compared to the Conservatives who gained 100 seats in the election, the result for Prosperitas was bleak and the first time that being a Junior Member of a Coalition resulted in a loss of seats.

Prosperitas Leader, and newly tipped Deputy-Prime Minister, Catherine Nixon commented on the leaks earlier to Aurentina Today. She stated that it was true that Prosperitas would be forming with a Coalition with the Conservatives, when asked by one of our reporters whether it would be easy to govern with the Conservatives after their new partner spent six years criticising their record she responded calmly stating "We've been in Coalition with the Conservatives before between 2014 and 2020, we have been able to work with them before and we shall be able to do so again".

When we asked the Prosperitas Leader if she had managed to secure some key pledges of the Prosperitas Manifesto into the Coalition agreement, she was optimistic and said that "we have managed to guarantee major parts of our manifesto are implemented in government, ranging from taxation to our biggest promise a Basic Income Guarantee"

Conservative Sources denied that a Basic Income Guarantee was a set-in-stone policy, and instead argued that the Basic Income Guarantee would be the result of a Referendum

Both the Conservative Party and Prosperitas unveiled the Coalition Agreement simultaneously just half an hour ago which has confirmed that there is to be a Referendum on the Basic Income Guarantee and some more controversial policies including a Same-Sex Marriage Bill, Hospital and GP Charges, Privatisation of the Rail Network and a wide ranging consultation into the narcotic laws of Aurentina.

Acting Leader of the Social Democrats, Richard Milton MP has released a press statement saying that the Coalition Agreement was a "one way street down to further inequality" and that whilst the Social Democrats accepted defeat at the Parliamentary Elections they would "oppose the Coalition as much as possible.

Expect an Article from AurentinaToday soon looking at who won what in the Coalition Agreement



Edited by Battlion, Jun 8 2014, 06:00 PM.
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AURENTINA TODAY


Aurentina votes in favour of Basic Income Guarantee



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The results are in, Aurentina has voted yes to the proposal of a Basic Income Guarantee which would see the government delivering a equally distributed basic income to the citizens of Aurentina, a key Prosperitas policy.

23:49 - 9th February 2028

BASIC INCOME GUARANTEE - Aurentina voted today in favour of a Basic Income Guarantee, and it has met the high demands expected of it. Turnout was 64% thus above the 60% required by the First Amendment to the Referendum Act to be binding, therefore the government will be introducing legislation to establish a Basic Income Guarantee within the next week. This was confirmed by the Prime Minister and Deputy-Prime Minister who said that the referendum was "fair, free and decisive" however some Conservative MP's have said they will try prevent the legislation regardless of the referendum.

The Deputy-Prime Minister looked jubilant as it was finally confirmed that Aurentina had voted Yes to the Basic Income Guarantee, the referendum which had been a hotly contested piece of legislation between the Conservatives and Prosperitas was approved last year when the Basic Income Guarantee (Referendum) Act was approved by Conservatives, Prosperitas, Social Democrats and the Greens.

Below you may find how the regions voted followed by the national result:


Evanshire
YES: 52%
NO: 48%


Aldbeach
YES: 54%
NO: 46%

Dorford
YES: 49%
NO: 51%


Woodcrest
YES: 57%
NO: 43%


Blackford
YES: 78%
NO: 22%


Glasslyn
YES: 56%
NO: 44%


Falldell
YES: 59%
NO: 41%


Wyvernbank
YES: 53%
NO: 47%


Dellgate
YES: 53%
NO: 47%


Bushhall

YES: 51%
NO: 49%


Springhaven
YES: 57%
NO: 43%


Estershade
YES: 64%
NO: 36%



National Result
YES: 54%
NO: 46%

Turnout: 64%


Aurentina Today has calculated what % of the population actually voted for what, we can reveal today that 34.56% of the total population voted in favour of the Basic Income Guarantee, 29.44% voted against the Basic Income Guarantee whilst 36% of the total population did not actually vote.

Some Conservatives have questioned the validity of the referendum where less than 50% of the total population voted in favour of a change to the status quo, the Prime Minister stated that the Referendum had been decisive and had met legal requirements thus would be binding.

Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
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AURENTINA TODAY


Government introduces Basic Income Guarantee Act - Prime Minister motions for a Joint Session of Parliament for the 17th February



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Earlier this week the Basic Income Guarantee was approved by a referendum that met the turnout requirements to be binding, therefore the government has introduced a Basic Income Guarantee Act to deliver a Basic Income Guarantee however there are disagreements between the Conservatives and Prosperitas on some areas of the policy.

12:43 - 13th February 2028

BASIC INCOME GUARANTEE - The Prime Minister sent a clear message to Conservatives who hope to stop the Basic Income Guarantee today, it was that they should not vote against the proposal and that the battle was lost therefore they must deliver the will of the Aurentine people.

The Government has introduced a barebones piece of legislation, intentionally due to disagreements between Conservatives and Prosperitas on the distance the legislation should go. The Prime Minister called for a Joint Session of Parliament, the first of his three uses this year, to decide on the full content of the legislation and to pass the legislation.

The contested areas are:

  • Who is entitled to the Basic Income Guarantee? - The Conservatives want all adult citizens living within Aurentina to receive the BiG, however refuse to back proposals for Prisoners to also receive the Basic Income Guarantee. Prosperitas meanwhile maintains it should provide a Basic Income to all citizens regardless of their location and that prisoners who are citizens should also receive the Basic Income.

  • The Amount given to every Citizen and where it is derived from, Prosperitas wants a pot of money to be distributed equally amongst all citizens from a portion of government surpluses, privatisations and budgeting from the government whilst the Conservatives have argued for a basic fund from the budget to be used.

  • Whether the amount should be a fixed figure or reviewed yearly.

    What's clear is that the Joint Session will see the Conservatives having to negotiate with Prosperitas or even the Social Democrats to get some concessions, however what is to say that Prosperitas or the Social Democrats will want to negotiate?

    Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
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A National Update



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This is an OOC Update to make all of you aware of what will have ICly happened during my break

13:29 - 14th February - March 2028

NATIONAL UPDATE - Below is a bullet list of events that will have ICly occurred over the previous weekend, which I'm too lazy to write posts for...

  • 2028 Budget approved in Joint Session with a sizable Surplus
  • Opposition claims the FairTax has "failed" to meet expectations upon confirmation that it would not be revenue neutral
  • Conservative Leadership under fire from some Conservative MP's and Senators that Aurentine Foreign Policy needs to be more "hawkish", the Prime Minister promises a full review of policy and would make any changes that the cabinet deems acceptable.
  • Basic Income Guarantee Legislation approved in Joint Session, delivering a standard $150 payment to every adult citizen and $50 to every child monthly, subject to yearly review.
  • Aircraft Carriers arrive outside Abere National Waters to enforce No-Fly Zone



Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
Edited by Battlion, Jul 29 2014, 09:11 AM.
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Government to fast-track "hawkish" foreign policies through Parliament



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The Government introduced three new pieces of legislation aiming at "expanding the options of government" over foreign policy and allowing it to be "flexible" instead of the "compulsory dove". Seemingly in response after over half of Conservative MP and Senators demanded a tougher response on Abere

14:29 - 5th March 2028

LEGISLATION - The Government has caved in, well the Conservative elements of the government have caved in to pressure from roughly 321 Conservative MP's and Senators calling for a tougher response from the government on Abere. However it was clear that Prosperitas has prevented the Conservatives caving in fully by refusing to permit a change of stance on the Abere crisis maintaining that the current response was "absolutely sensible", therefore a deal has been brokered to fast-track three pieces of legislation through Parliament that would expand the foreign policy options of the government which has been deemed to be "hawkish" and shifts the balance away from complete non-participation in foreign conflicts.

The three pieces of legislation all vary in topics, with one requiring the government to prevent the distribution of Aurentine Assistance of any kind to nations which "excessive and/or gross violations of individual rights" and points out the Charter of Citizen's Rights and Responsibilities as a guideline for the government to consider. Other pieces of legislation give the government further powers to seize assets and now property of foreign nations in Aurentine territory in the event of excessive and/or gross violations of individual rights or in times of war whilst another regarding the promotion of Democracy and allowing the government to give a harsher tone towards non-democratic nations preventing the government from agreeing to treaties, agreements whilst also not officially withdrawing diplomatic staff and any aid until democratic reforms are agreed.

The pieces of legislation are listed below:

  • Aurentine Foreign Assistance Act - AFAA requires the government to act on "excessive and/or gross violations of individual rights" by withdrawing any assistance in any form whether it be financial or not and pegs the Citizen's Charter of Rights and Responsibilities as a guideline of the rights that should be protected. It also allows the government to bypass government's of other nations for aid distribution permitting it to give aid directly to charities or other groups in other countries, it has been described by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs as a "sensible policy" that "puts people before politicians" and is likely to be supported by the Social Democrats.

  • Foreign Assets and Property (Seizure & Sale) Act - FASSA gives the government the power to seize assets and/or property of other nations within the territory of Aurentina, however restricts it to only nations that have "excessive and/or gross violations of individual rights" seemingly an expansion of AFFA however also includes "nations of which conflict exists between Aurentina and the individual nation in question" meaning that in war the government could legally seize any assets or property of their opponent. Seen as the most "hawkish" piece of legislation proposed it has been seen by some critics as an excuse to "provoke" and cause "unnecessary friction" with other nations. The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs said the legislation was "tough and gritty" and that the government would only use the authority granted to it in the "most dire" situations. The Social Democrats have indicated that the policy is "damaging and too harsh" and that they would oppose the legislation when it came to a vote.

  • International Democracy Promotion Act - IDPA is another binding foreign policy on the government requiring it to give a harsher tone to non-democratic nations or those deemed to be "sham democracies" requiring the government to publicly or privately place pressure on those nations for democratic reform, it also bans the government from passing agreements, treaties or accords with non-democratic nations whilst also forcing the government to withdraw any assistance from said nations until there has been a "real democratic reform". Options included are diplomatic, economic and military sanctions where necessary in the most extreme situations whilst the basic response would be earlier mentioned options. The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs said the legislation was "common sense for any democratic nation" that should be pushing for "democratic rights for all" and must be "prepared to pressure foreign governments to do so". The Social Democrats are believed to be split on this proposal.


The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs called the legislation a "full package" that would be "reliant on every other piece of the package" stressing the need for all three pieces of legislation to be passed, however with Prosperitas support already secured under the compromise agreements it seems that the Social Democrats may provide unheard objections.


Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
Edited by Battlion, Jul 30 2014, 09:52 AM.
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Fighting begins in Abere - Prime Minister calls for "restraint in attacks" and "protecting innocent civilians"



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The Prime Minister called the International Community to show restraint when attacking targets in Abere and ensuring all sides protect innocent civilians from harm who did not ask for this conflict. The Prime Minister also restated his support for Aurentine involvement in the No-Fly Zone despite government legislation to allow a tougher response being proposed.

13:48 - 9th March 2028

ABERE CRISIS - "Restrain and Defend" was the message the Prime Minister asked the International Community to consider today after the first reports of fighting began in Abere following a blockade and international no-fly zone. The Prime Minister urged all sides to consider the "repercussions" of the war and that the future would not be decided by "bombs and bullets" but "dialogue and democracy".

When asked by Aurentina Today if his position on the No-Fly Zone would change and Aurentina would get involved on the ground in Abere if recent government proposals become law, the Prime Minister said that the "current action being taken was sensible, proportionate and absolutely right" and that he "would not support Aurentine troops being deployed in this situation" leading to critics and other commentators speculating that Prosperitas was refusing to allow the Conservatives to push for tougher action despite new legislation being introduced.

Conservative MP's and Senators reacted angrily to the Government's policy on Abere, demanding a tougher response following the seizure of foreign citizens on the basis of their religion. The Government responded initially by trying to broker negotiations which failed to get off the ground following Abere and Carpathia being reluctant to negotiate with the other, then further proceeded to implement limited diplomatic and economic sanction on Abere and concluded with Aurentina also assisting with the enforcement of a No-Fly Zone.

Rumours suggest that Senior Conservatives fear a rift forming between the party regarding Abere and the government response, therefore have become determined to show they are being constrained by Prosperitas without publicly saying so. Which if happened, could lead to a Coalition row over the topic so Senior Conservatives have had to attempt to balance their Coalition Partners and their own backbenchers.

What is clear is that the Coalition will be unlikely to declare war on Abere, but we can seriously expect a tougher tone from them to keep backbench Conservatives on side. Whether this is a good step away from the "unconditional dove" to a "balanced approach" is yet to be seen, many will look to how this government uses it's new policies once approved.

Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
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Negotiations on Constitution Act content "challenging" - Emily Marsden



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The Social Democrats, Prosperitas and the Conservatives have been negotiating for an agreement for the content of a Constitution Act in a method of providing constitutional legislation without the need for abandoning current conventions, however the parties on split on the basis of some principles and institutions in the new proposals.

16:29 - 11th March 2028

CONSTITUTION - The Leader of the Opposition was clear today regarding her proposals for a Constitution Act that there is division between all three major parties on the content of the Constitution Act, more specifically between the Social Democrats and Prosperitas against the Conservatives who are sceptical of the proposals.

The Social Democrats & Prosperitas called for a Constitution Act that tags existing legislation together to form the "Constitutional Foundations" of the law and elevating it above other pieces of legislation, the Conservatives reacted cautiously to the proposals however have been dragging their heels over the topic because of fears that the Constitution Act could be used as a basis for the establishment of a Supreme Court that could overrule Parliament and erode Parliamentary Sovereignty.

It is no secret that Prosperitas backs a more powerful Supreme Court that is able to challenge the government and hold it accountable, the Social Democrats had previously opposed such a policy yet under their internal policy review following the 2026 election they've re-considered their position. Both the Social Democrats and Prosperitas are aware that in the current parliamentary format the Conservatives are needed to ensure the legislation has success in the People's Chamber, however the Conservative Leadership is remaining defiant that all Conservative MP's and Senators will vote against a Constitution Act that does not meet their key demands which the Prime Minister outlined on the 20th January.

The demands were:

  • The retention of Parliamentary Sovereignty undisturbed
  • The ability for Governments to be free to form and amend policy without interference from other branches of government, specifically judicial.
  • An Independent Non-Partisan Judiciary, not approved or chosen by elected politicians for party political means.
  • The expectation that Taxpayers shall be taxed fairly, without disproportion regardless of government.
  • All previously established conventions to be adopted instead of re-written or removed


The Leader of the Opposition would not explicitly state where negotiations were proving tough however she stated that "all three parties had been able to move closer to a deal" however there were "clear areas of contention" on some topics which were looking more and more polarizing.

If negotiations break down it could have major repercussions for all parties, if the negotiations fail and the Social Democrats and Prosperitas table a piece of legislation of their own favour it could be unilaterally blocked by the Conservatives in the People's Chamber whilst if negotiations fail the Conservatives could be alone in the 2029 Election on the stance regarding a Constitution Act which could ramp up any future Coalition Negotiations if they were needed.

However, some Commentators have speculated that there could be enough Conservative support from the backbenches willing or considering to defy the leadership on their position on the Constitution Act to allow the proposals to narrowly be passed through the People's Chamber which if done would reduce the chances of the Conservatives blocking it in the Senate.

Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
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Child Protection Act becomes Law - "The most comprehensive Child Protection Legislation in Aurentine History"



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The Child Protection Act, a proposal which the government introduced as part of "phase two" had support from all across the spectrum with only No2TheState opposing under their "compulsory opposition" to all pieces of legislation. The CPA has been described by all three leaders as the most comprehensive Child Protection Legislation and addresses areas previously untouched by the law whilst also strengthening punishments for such offences against children.

18:24 - 14th March 2028

CHILD PROTECTION - The Child Protection Act was one of the government's most in-depth proposals in "phase two" and addresses multiple areas regarding Child Protection, from the provision of childcare and expectations of those that care for children to introducing sentence modifiers for when offences are committed against children where punishments could add another 50% of the usual sentence if an offence was committed on a child.

The Legislation repealed all previous Child Protection Laws and subsequently replaced them with one big arching Child Protection Law, which was intended to "simplify case law" allowing courts to use a single piece of law rather
than multiple pieces from across the decades.

Some of the key parts of the Child Protection Act can be seen below:

  • The minimum age that a child can be legally left alone without the care of a responsible adult or carer shall be set at ten years old.
  • A Children's Commissioner shall be established nationally to oversee the implementation of Child Protection policies and shall hold newly required Regional Children Protection Boards to account, the Children's Commissioner shall be tasked with issuing new guidelines under the provision of the Child Protection Act for the care of children and what is deemed appropriate or not.
  • Every Regional Executive shall be required to establish a Regional Child Protection Board to distribute and enforce new guidelines from the Children's Commissioner, these boards shall be composed of politicians, law enforcement workers and judges which shall take evidence from parents, teachers and child carers on the steps required to sufficiently protect children.
  • It shall become illegal to physically, mentally or psychologically harm a child in a way that leaves lasting damage as minimal as scratches or bruises as a form of punishment regardless of behaviour.
  • Sentence Modifiers shall be introduced for when offences are committed against a Child, up to 50% of the punishment shall be added on top of the standard. For example, Murder which can be punished by 30 years in prison would be increased to 45 Years if it was against a Child. This shall be binding on judges.
  • Further expands the role of charities in providing support and guidance to children, promoting child welfare and upholding the rights of a child.


The Prime Minister, Deputy-Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition all released a joint statement saying the legislation was a "great day for children everywhere" and that Aurentina would become the "safest place for children". The Deputy-Prime Minister, who is currently pregnant with her first child, released separate statement hailing the work of all parties to agree to the measures the Child Protection Act introduces and thanks them for ensuring Aurentina will be safer for her child.

Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
Edited by Battlion, Jul 30 2014, 01:24 AM.
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Devolution Act passes Senate - Regional Assemblies to begin requesting Powers



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The Devolution Act, one of the most central pieces of "phase two" primarily allows regional assemblies to vote and request powers from the National Parliament, with a list of exempt powers that regional assemblies may not request including Foreign Affairs, Defence, tax & economic policy, Health and Welfare.

13:32 - 16th March 2028

DEVOLUTION - The Government had to respond to the rise of the Blackford Independence Party in the Blackford Regional Assembly, therefore they responded with the Devolution Act. This new legislation already expands on the powers granted to Regional Assemblies under the Local Powers Act, it allows every regional assembly to hold a vote on a programme of powers that they wish to hold. If approved by the regional assembly, the National Parliament will then consider the programme and vote on both accordingly in the People's Chamber and Senate. If the National Parliament approves, the government shall draft a Devolution Accord which shall be signed by the Prime Minister of the day, First Minister of the region and will be ratified by both the National Parliament and Regional Assembly.

The Devolution Act allows the flexibility of regional Assemblies to specifically request specific powers or entire broad areas of policy, this will allow all regional assemblies to approach devolution at their own speed and become more accountable for their policies. It has been noted however that in the Devolution Accord that national law must still be enforced even in regions, introducing what is seen as National Legislation Supremacy over Regional Legislation.

The legislation outlines areas of power/policy that will not be devolved, and also areas that are primarily served by Aurentine Law but can be devolved if requested.

The powers/policy areas that are reserved fully to the National Parliament:

  • International relations
  • Defence and armed forces
  • Aurentina-wide taxation
  • Currency
  • Conferring of Honours
  • International Treaties
  • Nationality, immigration and asylum
  • Environmental Protection & Energy Generation
  • Transport - National Franchising of Railways


Powers/policy areas stated to be generally in the realm of the National Parliament, however Regional Assemblies may legislate with permission from the National Parliament

  • Financial Services & Pension Regulation
  • Broadcasting
  • Import and Export Controls
  • Navigation & Civil Aviation
  • International Trade & Financial Markets
  • Telecommunications & Postage
  • The foreshore & seabed
  • Disqualification from Assembly Membership for AM's
  • Consumer Safety
  • Intellectual Property
  • Healthcare Provision
  • Education Provision & Curriculum
  • Regional Taxation


It is widely expected that with the policy now law, that all Regional Assemblies will push for further devolved powers.

Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
Edited by Battlion, Oct 6 2014, 03:58 AM.
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Government introduces GiftAid Act - Charities welcome move as "crucial for charitable causes"



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The Government introduced the GiftAid Act today in the People's Chamber, a scheme under this piece of legislation would allow charities to claim some of the tax paid into the national coffers when an Aurentine Taxpayer aka anyone who pays the FairTax donates goods to a charity, when re-sold charities will be able to claim back 25p for every $1 that the good cost directly back into the charity.

19:21 - 16th March 2028

GIFTAID - Charities welcomed it, the Opposition applauded, the Government will deliver it. The GiftAid act was introduced by the government today as an additional piece of "phase two" and will allow charities to claim back some national tax if donations it has received has been given by a registered GiftAid participant.

GiftAid is a voluntary scheme, which allows individuals to request that the government return 25p for every $1 tax dollars for the equivalent of the price given to their donation to be directly re-invested into the charity. Individuals will be able to register online, via telephone or by a physical form which shall be available at charity shops across the country.

Charities have welcomed the move saying it "recognises the hardwork of charities nationwide" and allows them to "earn more money to spend on good causes", the cost of this policy however comes to the treasury where if an individual has confirmed that they wish for the charity to claim GiftAid on his/her donations the treasury shall be obligated to return some of the tax dollars from the FairTax to the charity.

For example, let's compare an individual who donates a handbag to a charity store...

If this individual was not registered as agreeing to GiftAid, the price of which the charity re-sells her handbag at $5.99 would wholly return to the charity.

If this individual was registered as agreeing to GiftAid, the price of which the charity re-sells her handbag at $5.99 would wholly return to the charity however for every $1 in the price the charity shall be able to claim an additional 25p which in this case would return another $1.25 to the charity bringing the total the charity would receive for the handbag would be $7.24.

In addition, if an individual who is registered with GiftAid donates money to a charity the government shall again donate an additional 25p per Aurentine dollar donated. Thus a donation of $10 would see the government also donate an additional $2.50.

The Social Democrats have pledged to back the proposal through parliament, therefore it looks set that charities will see additional revenue at the cost of voluntary taxpayers. Most charities however note that this extra revenue will allow them to go further in their work and to achieve their aims and goals, which the government hailed as a "transformative policy result".

Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
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Government announces Free-Trade Agreement deal with Goldecia



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The Government begun negotiations in Vernil 2027 over the possibility of a free-trade agreement between Aurentina and Goldecia.

19:21 - 21st March 2028

FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS - Negotiations have lasted thirteen months, a deal has been struck and has been hailed by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Secretary of State for Business as a "monumental deal" between both Aurentina and Goldecia.

The announcement of the Free-Trade Deal between Aurentina and Goldecia focused on key parts, which can be seen below:

> Remove Tariffs between Aurentina & Goldecia on all goods
> Extended Visa's for Business owners and entrepreneurs from Aurentina & Goldecia
> Allow highly skilled workers from both nations to reside in the other longer
> Visa Quota of 5040 for Aurentine and Goldecian citizens to be fast-tracked via the FTA
> Three Month Trial Period for Aurentine and Goldecian citizens to work in the other nation without Work Permit's or Visa's
> Higher Competitiveness by expanding our markets to allow the flow of goods and services to be easier between our countries and investment between Aurentine and Goldecian companies
> Allow Aurentine workers to work in Aurentine companies with fast-tracked work permits and likewise the other way

The deal is expected to be signed on the 20th April 2028.

Check back with Aurentina Today soon for more news!
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'Hawkish' Policies soar into Law



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The Government introduced three new pieces of legislation earlier this month aiming with aims to "expanding the options of government" over foreign policy and allowing it to be "flexible" instead of the "compulsory dove".

13:21 - 22nd March 2028

LEGISLATION - The Senate passed AFAA, FASSA and IPDA into law today, the three pieces of legislation seen by as a response from Senior Conservatives to appease backbench MP's and Senators over a response in Abere which they have determined to be weak.

Whilst the legislation does not in any form facilitate a direct interventional approach, it has added a far more "gritty" foreign policy option to the policies available to the government as some commentators have speculated. However some question when these policies may be used, whether they will be used against Abere and some Conservative backbenchers are still saying that the response is not enough and will not be enough if these policies were used.

The pieces of legislation are listed below:

  • Aurentine Foreign Assistance Act - AFAA requires the government to act on "excessive and/or gross violations of individual rights" by withdrawing any assistance in any form whether it be financial or not and pegs the Citizen's Charter of Rights and Responsibilities as a guideline of the rights that should be protected. It also allows the government to bypass government's of other nations for aid distribution permitting it to give aid directly to charities or other groups in other countries, it has been described by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs as a "sensible policy" that "puts people before politicians" and is likely to be supported by the Social Democrats.

  • Foreign Assets and Property (Seizure & Sale) Act - FASSA gives the government the power to seize assets and/or property of other nations within the territory of Aurentina, however restricts it to only nations that have "excessive and/or gross violations of individual rights" seemingly an expansion of AFFA however also includes "nations of which conflict exists between Aurentina and the individual nation in question" meaning that in war the government could legally seize any assets or property of their opponent. Seen as the most "hawkish" piece of legislation proposed it has been seen by some critics as an excuse to "provoke" and cause "unnecessary friction" with other nations. The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs said the legislation was "tough and gritty" and that the government would only use the authority granted to it in the "most dire" situations. The Social Democrats have indicated that the policy is "damaging and too harsh" and that they would oppose the legislation when it came to a vote.

  • International Democracy Promotion Act - IDPA is another binding foreign policy on the government requiring it to give a harsher tone to non-democratic nations or those deemed to be "sham democracies" requiring the government to publicly or privately place pressure on those nations for democratic reform, it also bans the government from passing agreements, treaties or accords with non-democratic nations whilst also forcing the government to withdraw any assistance from said nations until there has been a "real democratic reform". Options included are diplomatic, economic and military sanctions where necessary in the most extreme situations whilst the basic response would be earlier mentioned options. The Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs said the legislation was "common sense for any democratic nation" that should be pushing for "democratic rights for all" and must be "prepared to pressure foreign governments to do so". The Social Democrats are believed to be split on this proposal.


Could we see a further response from the Government? If so, what will it be and will it satisfy Conservative backbenchers? Prosperitas may not be willing to go much further, if they are not willing to go any further we may well begin to see some Conservative backbenchers willing to become rebellious.

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Battlion
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Conservatives "walk out" of Constitution Act Negotiations - Social Democrats and Prosperitas to propose their own edition to Parlament



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Talks between the Conservatives, Prosperitas and the Social Democrats have broken down today over the possibility of a Constitution Act. In response, the Social Democrats and Prosperitas said they would propose the version of the Constitution Act before negotiations stalled.

16:58 - 22nd March 2028

CONSTITUTION - The Conservatives walked out of negotiations for the Constitution Act for "several reasons" according to the Prime Minister, he cited that the main reason was "the disturbance of Parliamentary Sovereignty" and the refusal to commit to another key demand of ensuring that policies and legislation cannot be interfered or struck down by courts.

The demands of the Conservatives were:

  • The retention of Parliamentary Sovereignty undisturbed
  • The ability for Governments to be free to form and amend policy without interference from other branches of government, specifically judicial.
  • An Independent Non-Partisan Judiciary, not approved or chosen by elected politicians for party political means.
  • The expectation that Taxpayers shall be taxed fairly, without disproportion regardless of government.
  • All previously established conventions to be adopted instead of re-written or removed


The Social Democrats and Prosperitas in response said they would "try their luck" at proposing the Constitution Act that had been "most favourable" at the time of negotiations stalling, they confirmed there would be accompanying legislation introducing a more powerful Supreme Court however stated that the Supreme Court legislation would need to be passed first for the Constitution Act to make sense.

They revealed that the pieces of legislation that they would tag to the Constitution Act, thus making it constitutional law would include the following:

  • The Parliament Act
  • The Referendum Act & all subsequent amendments
  • Basic Income Guarantee Act
  • Recall (MP's & Officials) Act
  • Aurentine Citizenship (Road to Citizenship) Act
  • Devolution Act
  • Citizen's Rights and Responsibilities Charter


They did state that other pieces of legislation would also be elevated to Constitutional Status, however promised to release further details soon. The Social Democrats have stated they will introduce the Constitution Act and a piece of legislation pertaining to a Supreme Court as part of their three Opposition bills for 2028 and called on the Government to allow a free vote on the issue.

What is certain, is that if the Constitution Act does pass then there will tensions between the Coalition partners of the Conservatives and Prosperitas and within the Conservative party if enough MP's and Senators are willing to defy the party leadership and vote in favour of the legislation.

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Edited by Battlion, Jul 31 2014, 09:20 PM.
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Free-Trade Agreement signed with Carpathia



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In a simple signing, Aurentina and Carpathia have seemingly put all past tensions behind them as they sign a Free-Trade Agreement today that is to be mutually beneficial to both nations and was hailed by the Prime Minister as "historic".

13:21 - 26th March 2028

FREE TRADE AGREEMENTS - In a trade agreement that has been seen to be emulating an agreement previously reached with Goldecia it has been seen to be a major step for Aurentine-Carpathian relations, if asked in the last year if we thought that the Prime Minister would back any form of agreement with Carpathia there would have been very little willing to bet in favour.

You can now see the key points of the deal below...

> Remove Tariffs between Aurentina & Carpathia on all goods
> Free travel policy and the possibility of permanent residence upon employment
> Three Month Trial Period for Aurentine and Carpathian citizens to reside in the other nation without employment
> Higher Competitiveness by expanding our markets to allow the flow of goods and services to be easier between our countries and investment between Aurentine and Carpathian companies

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Blackford Assembly requests "wide-ranging" Devolution Programme



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Blackford, the region that arguably has the biggest nationalistic feeling where the Blackford Independence Party is the junior party of the ruling Regional Executive Coalition, has voted in favour to request a devolution programme of powers that has been called a "programme for Blackford's advancement".

16:21 - 3rd April 2028

DEVOLUTION - It is clear that the Blackford Independence Party got a major role in deciding which powers the Regional Executive would propose to the Regional Assembly to put together a programme for Devolution, taking whole policy areas from the excepted powers list set out in the Devolution Act.

The Coalition has not said how it view's the request from Blackford but has instead said that "MP's and Senators would look at the merits of the devolution programme, and take a power-by-power approach", the Social Democrats echoed the sentiments of the Coalition and would consider every programme proposal in rigorous detail.

The Devolution Programme for Blackford proposes the following powers be devolved:

  • Education Provision
  • Assembly Member Disqualification
  • International Trade
  • Broadcasting
  • Healthcare Provision
  • Taxation (Right for Blackford to raise own revenue with own taxes)
  • Transport (Local Services excluding Railways)
  • Power to call a legally binding Independence Referendum via legislation (At some point when appropriate)


Commenators expect the Conservatives to object to the devolution of power to allow Blackford to impose additional taxation when FairTax is the only National Tax, further objections may include Healthcare Provision which could see Healthcare Access charges be slowly unpicked by regional assemblies.

We'll bring you more as we know

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Social Democrats & Prosperitas launch Constitution Act & Supreme Court Act



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The Social Democrats and Prosperitas have launched their proposal for a Constitution Act, that would tag legislation to a Constitutional status, and a Supreme Court Act establishing a more powerful Supreme Court that shall be able to hold Parliament and the Government's accountable.

11:21 - 7th April 2028

CONSTITUTION - The proposals put forward have not differed too far from their original suggestions before negotiations with the Conservatives began, clearly the Social Democrats and Prosperitas believe they may just have enough votes in the People's Chamber to pass it through to the Senate where the Conservatives will be less likely to block the legislation.

Why have they been so confident? Because they have nothing to lose, the Social Democrats can use the proposals as a way of distinguishing themselves and showing to the voters that they can change their policy when they have to whilst Prosperitas is already in government and already delivering their own manifesto pledges and with these proposals being passed they would add another trophy to their case.

The Constitution Act proposal, works on a process of "tagging" already existing legislation to the Constitution Act as "integral parts" and elevating them to a Constitutional status. The legislation itself contains many mechanisms, that whilst legal, have never really been put together in one piece of legislation to bind future parliament's to the Constitution Act proposal.

The tagging/detagging process would require 2/3 of MP's and Senators to vote in favour, followed by votes of approval from every Regional Assembly and then a referendum consulting voters. Therefore, the legislation included in the Constitution Act in the proposal as "fundamentally tagged" meaning no votes necessary would need to be overwhelmingly supported by all sides.

The Supreme Court proposal would establish a Supreme Court based on the following criterion:

  • The Supreme Court would be composed of Five Justices nominated by an Independent Commission and approved by the People's Chamber and Senate with supermajorities

  • Justices would be granted a life term and would be able to resign if they wished

  • Justices would be required to swear an oath of impartiality before beginning to hear every case, with any Justices with a connection to the case in any form must declare and remove themselves from the bench

  • The Supreme Court would be required to judge the values and morals of legislation passed by Parliament and strike down legislation if it is incompatible with previous legislation

  • The Supreme Court will be able to interpret legislation in it's own manner and clarify the law and it's implications and directions


On the Preliminary Vote in the People's Chamber, most Conservatives abstained which has been seen by a move from the leadership not to antagonise Prosperitas whom they still require to get their own proposals through the Senate however it is expected that in the next vote we will see the divisions and whether the proposals will ever become law.

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