Platform

For a

New, Radical

MERCIA

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Contents

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Introduction ... ... ... ... ... ... 3Abortion ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 4Agriculture ... ... ... ... ... ... 4 – 5Allotments & Community Gardens .. 5Angling ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6Arts ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 -7Asylum ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 – 8Banking & Finance ... ... ... ... 8Benefits ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 – 9Broadcasting ... ... ... ... ... ... 9Charities ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 9 – 10Civil Liberties ... ... ... ... ... ... 10Class ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 10Community Democracy ... ... ... 10 – 11Cornwall (Kernow) ... ... ... ... 11Council Tax ... ... ... ... ... ... 11Countryside & Rural Affairs ... 11 -12Culture ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 12 -13Declaration of Rights ... ... ... 13Defence ... ... ... ... ... ... 13 -14Direct Democracy ... ... ... ... 14Drugs ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 14 – 15Economy & Industry ... ... ... .. 15 - 17Education ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 17 -18Electoral Accountability ... ... ... 18Energy ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 19England & Regional Devolution ... 19 –20Environment & Ecology ... ... ... .. 20 21Equality ... ... ... ... ... ... ... .. 21Europe & the European Union ... ... 21 – 22Euthanasia ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 22Family & Community Values ... ... 22 – 23 Fishing Industry ... ... ... ... ... 23 – 24Foreign Affairs ... ... ... ... ... ... 24Gay Rights ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 24Globalisation ... ... ... ... ... ... 25Gloucestershire & Oxfordshire ... 25Guns & Weapons ... ... ... ... ... 25Health ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 25 – 26Housing ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 26 - 28

Hunting ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 28Immigration & Migration ... ... ... 28 – 29Internationalism ... ... ... ... ... 29Ireland ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 29Jobs ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 30Justice ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 30Land ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 30Law & Order ... ... ... ... ... ... 30 – 32Local Government ... ... ... ... 32 – 33Localisation of Society ... ... ... 33Media ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 33Monarchy ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 33Multiculturalism ... ... ... ... ... 34National Health Service ... ... ... 34 – 35Overseas Development ... ... ... 35 – 36Peace ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 36Pensions & the Elderly ... ... ... 36 – 37Pollution ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 37Population ... .. . ... ... ... ... 37 – 38Prisons ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 38 – 39Prostitution ... ... ... ... ... ... 39Racism & Discrimination ... ... ... 39Religion ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 39Retirement Age ... ... ... ... ... 39 – 40Road Safety ... ... ... ... ... ... 40Society ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 41Sovereignty & Identity ... ... ... 41 Sport ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 41 – 42Taxation ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 42Tourism ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . 42Trade Unions & Workers Rights .. 42 – 43Travellers ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 43Unemployment ... ... ... ... ... 44 United Nations ... ... ... ... ... 44Wages & Income ... ... ... ... .. 44Wealth ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 44We the People - Our Region ... .. 45Young People ... ... ... ... ... .. 45Youth Organisations ... ... ... ... 46

Introduction

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This document is a vision of a progressive Mercia Assembly, re-establishing the region and creating a new, radical Mercia. A Mercia built on social, economic and environmental justice, one that is internationalist with its own voice globally as well as across England and the present United Kingdom.

Many people might say “Why Mercia? Why try and create a vision for a long forgotten kingdom?”

To begin with Mercia should not be a forgotten land. The Bretons are rightly proud of Brittany as are the Bavarians of Bavaria, as are the people of many other historically and culturally rich regions across the world, including Cornwall (Kernow). Therefore Mercia should be rediscovered by the masses, celebrated and recognised, taking its rightful place alongside these other great regions.

But it’s more than promoting a vision of a Mercia of the past; it’s about the present and the future. In England there is a need for greater democracy and devolvement of powers from central government to the regions and the people. Mercia has a population far greater than Scotland, yet possesses no assembly and no powers. In terms of fair representation, Mercia should have its own voice and the same control over its own affairs as Scotland and Wales.

The vision in this document is one of a new, radical Mercia. New, because it’s a modern focus for an ancient Kingdom. Radical because it portrays the outline of a programme a truly progressive Mercia Assembly could deliver. A programme that not only is prepared to look at Mercia issues, but as a democratically elected Assembly, also to be prepared to speak out on national and international issues. This is because a new, radical Mercia should be far more than the lap dogs of Westminster, simply grateful for the crumbs of autonomy, but a voice for a better society and a better world.

On reading this document, the people of Mercia or Anglia or Yorkshire or other regions of England may feel the same way. This is why there needs to be greater cohesion between supporters of regionalism across Britain, to make calls for autonomy stronger and much, much louder. In this I would call for an annual conference of similar minded groups, with delegates elected from these groups to oversee this.

Finally we would say the voice for regional autonomy needs to be raised, not only in organisations and parties where we may be talking to the converted, but beyond into other movements. To promote regionalism, we need to inform both the un-informed and the ill-informed that there is another way that is neither Westminster led, nor Brussels imposed geographic regions.

Mercia Rising

November 2015

ABORTIONIn a new, radical Mercia, the aim would be to protect all living creatures. This is why it is important that the question of abortion and the unborn child is discussed. On the issue of abortion the wider picture needs to be viewed and the health, both physically and mentally, of the mother needs to be considered. Examples of this maybe a pregnancy through rape, or the mother’s life being put at risk through giving birth. Therefore in a new radical Mercia abortion should only be carried out when all other options have been explored, and not as a ‘get out of pregnancy’ option. We believe support, both practical and via education should be available to parents to help them cope in difficult circumstances. Progressive, radical policies on sex and citizenship education and community family and values contained within this platform could also have an impact on reducing the number of unwanted pregnancies.

AGRICULTUREMercia is Industrial and a rural region and one where agriculture plays a vital part of its economy. The move towards industrialised farming has destroyed both ecology and communities. It has created a two tier farming system with large scale and industrial farmers at the top of the pecking order and smaller family run or farms in a community sense lower down. Those benefitting the most are those who already have the most, plus large agro-chemical corporations. Regrettably industrialised farming has been allowed to increase with the support of successive British government’s and the European Union.

We need reverse the trend towards large industrialised farms that supply numerous food mountains and profits for the few. We need to return to the ideals that make the priorities of agriculture to feed the nation, be responsible for the environment and once more become a key part of rural communities. Incentives would be offered for the creation of co-operative, community managed farms.

We need to ensure Mercia farmers receive a decent return for their efforts. This can only be achieved by working in partnership with farmers in order to recognise areas of difficulty and support them in their hour of need.

Support needs to be given to natural forms of agriculture such as organic and bio-dynamic, including financial assistance to farmers in a transition period to these methods. Farming of ‘alternative crops’ for industrial uses where there is no prospect of damage to the eco-system should also be supported.

For social and environmental reasons we need to return to smaller less industrialised farming. To cope with the increase in labour required for such farming, greater emphasis needs to be given to agriculture as a career choice and make it easier for agriculture to attract students for seasonal farm work such as harvesting. Encouraging smaller scale and mixed farming, plus the creation of new co-operative farms, would provide far greater flexibility within agriculture.

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As an agricultural hub, Mercia does not need to transport massive quantities of produce from the other end of the country and should aim to keep the food supply as local as possible. In a new, radical Mercia, local agricultural networks would be established to achieve this and help bring an end to the often cruel and unnecessary transporting of livestock across the country. As part of this each network should supply information to a national stock register so that Britain wide and export markets abroad can be maintained.

There is a need to reduce food wastage. Households throw away an alarming percentage of bought food and the supermarkets throw away a considerable amount. The supermarkets rejection of perfectly good fruit and vegetables simply because of size and appearance needs to stop as this leads to unnecessary waste. Through education we can also help reduce rejection of food and produce which may not be of aesthetically perfect. Not only will tackling this issue reduce waste, it will also assist the farmers and smallholders by not having to discard crops.

In a new, radical Mercia Countryside Management is important and should aim to ensure local people actually manage their local environment. This would mean co-ordinated action where necessary in outbreaks of disease or dealing humanely and effectively with specific pest problems without disturbing the balance of nature.

Animal welfare is part and parcel of any progressive society, therefore in a new, radical Mercia there must be compassionate animal husbandry. We need improvements in animal welfare, with animal cruelty and neglect having no place in 21st century agriculture. Where required we need to seek improvements on how livestock are housed, reared and slaughtered. This would include closely monitored CCTV in slaughterhouses. Funding should be provided to assist farmers with any necessary improvements and changes. We strongly believe all forms of religious slaughter should not be exempt from improved animal welfare regulations. Meat reared and/or slaughtered by inhumane methods should not be sold in Mercia.

Mercia and its counties should be proud of our agricultural landscape, heritage and produce. Therefore we feel there should be County of Origin as well as Produce of Mercia labelling.

ALLOTMENTS & COMMUNITY GARDENSThere are thousands of allotments across Mercia, bringing enjoyment and a healthy pastime to countless people. Allotments should be part of the wider community. They should be places for growing, learning, havens for wildlife and green lungs in urban landscapes. In a new, radical Mercia there needs to be greater protection of all allotments and community gardens from the threat of development, and at the same time aims to open more sites. Allotment tenants should be given the option of managing sites themselves in association with the local authority.

In addition to being part of the community, allotments and horticulture should also be encouraged as something for the next generation. As part of incorporating this into a new, radical Mercia we need to ensure the re-introduction of school allotments and horticulture as a subject on the

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curriculum. Additionally competitive growing in the form of contests between county schools would add an additional element to the growing of produce.

ANGLINGAngling is a pastime enjoyed by millions of all generations and contributes to the economy of Mercia. Nevertheless we have to recognise when fishing for certain species or when specific methods are used an element of cruelty exists. This needs to be dealt with without spoiling the enjoyment of anglers or damaging the industry attached to this. In order to eliminate such cruelty legislation is needed to ensure only barbless hooks are used and the use of certain live bait is banned.

ANIMAL WELFAREA new, radical Mercia would be a beacon in promoting animal welfare. This could be achieved initially through co-operation with animal welfare organisations and businesses internationally, to introduce legislation for improving all aspects of animal welfare from agriculture, keeping domestic animals to zoos and wildlife collections.

It is a recognised fact those who commit cruelty towards animals very often go on to commit other violent crimes. Therefore penalties for inflicting harm or suffering with intent to animals (with the exception of accidental incidents in pest control) should be the equivalent as to those for inflicting the same harm or suffering on human beings. This will provide a strong deterrent for all those that wish to inflict pain on pets and wildlife for pleasure.

Vivisection is another area where we must explore other avenues. No animal should be used for experimentation for non-medical research. In the case of medical research, animals should only be used if there is no other alternative, and animal welfare must come before the cost of any experimentation. We must also work towards the complete phasing out of animal experimentation as soon as possible. Sufficient funding and development facilities should be provided to enable the phasing out of all animal experimentation within a period of five years.

All forms of ritual slaughter that involve suffering to animals should have no place in a new, radical Mercia and should immediately be banned. To ensure this negotiations need to be opened with religious authorities in order to find humane methods of slaughter that are acceptable to particular faiths and that do not involve pain and suffering to the animal.

Animal abuse in sport must not be ignored, and legislation must be tightened to prevent all forms of cruelty and prevent suffering.

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ARTSMercia has a magnitude of people talented in the arts, yet very often these people struggle to make ends meet, with many falling into the poverty trap. Yet everyone that practices art enriches their lives as well as those that observe them. A living income, through the introduction of a Citizens Income Scheme would provide the financial assistance necessary for artists to carry out their work without falling into the poverty trap.

Currently the majority of the arts are governed by money interests, which places them beyond the financial reach of large sections of the population. Many schools in poorer areas fail to recognise and encourage artistic talent in young people. Yet it is these poorer areas that could gain the most from the arts which could contribute greatly to improving the community. It is our belief the arts should be financially accessible for all sections of the community.

ASYLUMMercia has long been a sanctuary for those seeking to flee tyranny and we have continuously accepted asylum seekers from all over the globe. Our compassion is something we can be proud of. Nobody should live under the fear and threat of persecution. Representatives to the Mercia Assembly need to urge increasing commitments internationally to help bring about an end to this, by putting the welfare of citizens before the profits of big business and government.

Asylum is an international issue, and Britain does have a commitment in law (the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees) to accept those that seek asylum in this country. It would be inhumane to repeal this law and not be part of the international community in accepting genuine asylum seekers. However we can see flaws in the present system which operates on a national instead of an international basis. Refugee camps in France have been a classic example of this. We need to work internationally through the United Nations and encourage those fleeing tyranny and persecution to claim asylum in the nearest democratic country to their homeland. Clearly there would be greater cultural similarities for the asylum seeker if relocating closer to their homeland, plus it would bring greater diplomatic pressure on the oppressive state from its near neighbours and the international community. However we also need to understand in certain situations this could bring about a humanitarian crisis. Therefore as part of a progressive outlook, those that believe in a new, radical Mercia playing its part to the full globally would promote change to the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees. Such changes would see asylum as the responsibility of the international community, rather than individual nations and regions. This could be administered by the United Nations, with decisions based on social, cultural and sustainability aspects. Proposals for reforming the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees must still defend the right to asylum, but would be based on equality and not discrimination and would put the interests of the asylum seeker first. Such proposals would see asylum dealt with on an international basis through the UN, who would take into account all personal circumstances. Therefore overall proposed reforms would benefit those genuinely fleeing oppression and tyranny, and at the same time tackle the heartless few who seek to make profit from trafficking asylum seekers. No longer would asylum seekers have to travel huge distances, but simply go to the embassy of a neighbouring country where they would be passed on to a UN team.

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We should recognise asylum seekers are being made scapegoats for the economic woes of this country by governments, political parties and the right wing gutter press. These woes have been inflicted by governments and their obsessive drive for profit and self interest and they simply shift the blame on to easy targets such as asylum seekers in order to divert people from blaming the real culprits. A new, radical Mercia needs to be compassionate and progressive and play its part in opposing the heartless and discrimination.

BANKING & FINANCEThe present banking industry is a classic example of economic extremism at its worst. It is also an example of who pays the price when the economic extremist bubble bursts – and it is definitely not the banking executives and directors!

In any progressive society, businesses, including the banks should work for the benefit of the country and not vice versa as it is at present. We need to ensure we never again pay the price for banker’s greed. Therefore in a new, radical Mercia the banks and the finance industry would be brought under democratic public ownership with the creation of a Bank of Mercia

Community Credit Unions should also be encouraged as an alternative to banks and building societies. These would be managed by local collectives providing a valuable service to local communities. This would help eliminate loan sharks from preying on the most vulnerable.

BENEFITS We have all seen the headline of people claiming benefit whilst earning ‘X Amount’ doing this or that, or playing golf or football whilst claiming to be disabled. Any reasonable person would not condone such action by a tiny minority of people, but we do have to recognise three factors. Firstly it is an attempt by the media to demonise all benefit claimants.Secondly for every one fraudulent claimant that slips through the net there are hundreds of others who have faced a tremendous struggle to obtain any form of benefit. Thirdly there are many claimants that do not receive their full entitlement.

In 2010 twenty-seven leading charities, including Help the Aged, the Royal British Legion and Macmillan Cancer Support called on the government to set ambitious targets to improve take-up of welfare benefits and tax credits, highlighting more than £16 billion in means-tested benefits and tax credits go unclaimed every year.

In 2012 the Citizens Advice Bureau released a statement saying ‘Official figures show that up to £20 billion in means-tested benefits and tax credits go unclaimed every year. Older people are most likely to be missing out on pension credit and council tax benefit. As many as 1.6 million pensioners are missing out on an average of £34 a week in pension credit, while up to 2.9million households in all age groups are missing out on an average £14 a week in council tax benefit’.

As can be seen from these figures people are losing out on payments, which often leads some into

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the hands of the criminal fraternity in order to make ends meet. This in itself has a social cost to the wider community. It also has to be remembered that a huge chunk of money is paid out in housing benefits to landlords that charge their tenants exorbitant rents. This is happening in Mercia as well as across other parts of Britain.

A progressive Mercia Assembly should campaign for the present benefit system should be scrapped and a Citizens Income Scheme introduced offering all bone fide citizens a living income. Payment would provide enough money to clothe, feed, house and keep warm the individual, in other words the basic requirements. There would be separate rates for children, people over 60 and those with genuine disabilities and special needs. Each rate would be based on local financial requirements. There would be no additional funding to feed addictions, as those with such problems would receive specialist treatment via the NHS.

In addition to this essential food items should be made available free of charge or relatively cheaply through the issuing of coupons, therefore eliminating food and fuel poverty. Where possible the exchange of coupons should be through smaller businesses, and not large chains.

The Citizens Income Scheme would make it worthwhile people looking for work and accepting a job, as they would not lose a penny of their allowance. Therefore people would be better off working, be it full time or part time. It would create greater flexibility in the labour market and generate more money in the local and national economy. The Citizens Income Scheme would remove people from the poverty trap and create an environment for seeking employment.

The Citizens Income Scheme for pensioners should be at the same rate as their last employment, thus linking pensions with earnings.

BROADCASTINGCurrently broadcasting does not truly serve the people. We have seen the selling off of analogue signals with the public given no choice in the matter, and the promotion via the news media of corporate created events such as ‘Black Friday’. We believe in a broadcasting service that serves the people. The selling off of the analogue radio signal in Mercia must be opposed. A new, radical Mercia would see the creation of a specific Mercia television channel with county studios as well as a campaign for a BBC Mercia similar to BBC Cymru.

CHARITIESSufficient funding from government can alleviate the need for many charities. This is something a new, radical Mercia should try and achieve. However the need for charities will exist in certain cases and in a new, radical Mercia we should support free advertising for them via the media. In addition to this charities should be able to generate funding for their causes free from taxation.

However we have to recognise charities can raise a great deal of money by reducing their own costs. Many charities are based in plush offices in the west end of London. In these days of internet

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technology the need for a London address is definitely not essential. Therefore charities should be encouraged to relocate to areas where property and rents are cheaper, thus enabling them to generate more income for their worthy causes. A Mercia Assembly should encourage charities to relocate to areas of Mercia where property, rents and rates are cheaper than London.

In a new, radical Mercia, volunteering for a charity or community group would be part of the education programme. In addition to assisting the work of the charity, this would help towards creating a more compassionate society.

CIVIL LIBERTIESOver the years, successive governments have eroded many basic civil liberties. They have used the fear of terrorism and economic blackmail to attack civil liberties in the street and in the workplace. All this has been carried out without consulting the people. In a new, radical Mercia the aim would be to engage the population in a debate on civil liberties. A Mercia Assembly should lead the way in restoring civil liberties stolen from the people by governments craving their own power. In addition to this, via public debate and consultation a Declaration of Rights for Mercia Citizens should be written. The resulting Declaration would contain universal rights and lead to cohesion across presently divided social barriers.

A new, radical Mercia should be fully supportive of the European Court of Human Rights and the Human Rights Act.

CLASSClass is as an important factor in liberating the people and the fight for economic, social and environmental justice, cornerstones in creating a new, radical Mercia. We are told there are three classes, the working class, the middle class and the upper class. These are really artificial classes imposed by the establishment to divide and rule the majority class, i.e the working class. The establishment has tried to introduce a system where people are embarrassed to be working class and strive for the next run on the ladder, i.e to be middle class. Such competition pits worker against worker, citizen against citizen, child against child. It has in reality created an 'underclass' where those with least opportunity can see no way up the ladder and often resort to survival by their own means.

In a new, radical Mercia we need to create a much fairer society and the removal of all establishment imposed class structures must be part of this. All people should be valued and not have to compete to gain a higher social status. By focussing on progressive forms of taxation, imposing a wage cap on top earners and a pay differential of only ten to one, the class field financially will be levelled. Education, greater access to cultural activities and promoting community and mutual benefit would also erode the present class system and lead to an egalitarian and progressive society.

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COMMUNITY DEMOCRACYCommunity has to play a big part in creating a new, radical Mercia. This is why there is a need to decentralise the decision making process to Counties, Town Halls, and community and neighbourhood councils, making the local community at the heart of everything. A new, radical Mercia should be about empowering the people and not giving powers to politicians and bureaucrats.

CORNWALL (KERNOW)Kernow is a classic case where people are quite rightly proud of their Celtic roots and distinct cultural heritage and identity. Yet through mismanagement by consecutive Labour and Tory governments Kernow has suffered. As in Mercia, many people in Kernow have called for their own assembly or regional government. A progressive Mercia Assembly should stand arm in arm with our Celtic brothers and sisters across by calling for a referendum on the issue of an Assembly with varying degrees of autonomy, or if the people of Kernow desire national independence.

COUNCIL TAXCouncil tax, like the rates and the community charge/poll tax that preceded it, is an unfair method of raising revenue. Ultimately all taxation should be based on the ability to pay.

We also have to recognise for too long local authorities have squandered people’s money on plush furnishings for council offices, redesigning logos, expensive consultants and idiotic schemes which the majority of local residents don’t want or do not understand. Whilst ring fencing funding to protect vital services, a new, radical Mercia should promote greater local accountability and decision making, handing power to communities to decide the services they require in their area and the method of collecting revenue to provide these services. Such methods could be a local income tax or purchase tax, but it would be for the residents of each local authority to decide.

COUNTRYSIDE & RURAL AFFAIRSRural and environmental destruction needs to stop. Population growth in certain parts of Mercia, the breaking up of the family unit and social problems have all resulted in the extra pressure on the countryside to provide additional housing and the infrastructure that goes with it. The economy needs to be planned in a way where certain areas do not bear the brunt of population growth, and where employment security, financial constraints and consumerist pressure does not encourage social and family problems

A new, radical Mercia would revive a sense of community, enabling shops and local businesses to work together and provide a service. Transport links need restoring and a greater emphasis must be given to providing local employment.

Infrastructure, laws and facilities need to be provided to enable local shops and businesses to co-operate and work to together in a co-operative economic manner. The devolvement of power to

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local level, so each community can decide on the businesses and services it needs and then work to provide them will help achieve this and create employment opportunities. There also needs to be investment in rural communities to attract or create businesses that will employ local people. In a new, radical Mercia, a planned local economy would be fostered which would eradicate dog eat dog exploitive capitalism and allow businesses and communities to survive.

Many rural communities in Mercia have been quite vocal in claiming the damaging effect on their local economy due to the hunting ban. To counter the loss of income due to this, subject to animal welfare inspections, there should be investment from the Mercia Assembly in promoting ‘Drag Hunting’ as a pastime for locals and as a tourist attraction and activity. At present this activity is reserved only for a few, yet it has potential to play a major role in rejuvenating rural areas that have suffered from the loss of hunting. Short term subsidies could be arranged for stables, farms and businesses to take full advantage of this.

To improve transport links in rural communities, Mercia has to take control of its transport infrastructure. A regional integrated transport policy would improve transport links with rural communities. Where possible rail links would be restored or stations re-opened. Post Bus services should also be encouraged to operate either as an additional service or where it is impossible for a regular service to operate.

A new, radical Mercia would see Police reinstated as part of the community. Police houses and stations would be re-opened in towns, villages and rural communities along with local magistrate’s courts.

Pest control and diseases is another issue whereby central government has very little knowledge. Whilst ensuring animal welfare legislation for livestock, wildlife and domestic pets is adhered to and necessary improvements made, in a new, radical Mercia, Countryside Patrol Officers directly linked to the Police force should be introduced. It would be the duty of the Countryside Patrol Officers to know their local area, its people and the wildlife. Officers would work directly with farmers, land owners and conservation groups carrying out pest control and culling as required and just as importantly humanely.

Community and tradition must play a big part in building a new, radical Mercia. Local history and heritage groups should be encouraged in villages and rural communities to revive fetes and events that have been forced to close because of expensive insurance costs. At the same time, a progressive Mercia Assembly must challenge the reign of the insurance companies and if possible provide its own insurance for cultural and historic events.

In a nutshell our rural communities require investment and employment opportunities with better transport links and local policing restored. We need local services run by local people and a sense of community rather the dormitory nature of many villages. This can only happen through building a sense of identity and representation via a progressive Mercia Assembly.

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CULTUREThe counties of Mercia have their own unique cultures and traditions. As well as giving them a sense of uniqueness, if knitted together this could form a patchwork quilt of culture for the whole of Mercia. Indeed, there are still elements of a unique Anglo Saxon culture that exists in Mercia. All this needs to be brought to the forefront and celebrated in a form of Cultural Revolution to build a greater Mercia identity. This includes celebrating of St. Chads day and Penda’s Day

DECLARATION OF RIGHTSA new, radical Mercia has to have its own Declaration of Rights for Mercia citizens. This should come about not through the work of politicians, but the people themselves via a citizen orientated debate in communities across Mercia. The resulting Declaration would contain universal rights and lead to cohesion across presently divided social barriers.

DEFENCE Britain currently does not spend money on ‘defence’ but on ‘offence’. The blood of our Armed Forces personnel (a number from the towns, cities and villages of Mercia) is being spilled or at the very least put a risk in conflicts that have no connection to Britain. In a number of recent cases this even destabilises a country. Very often our so called ‘Defence’ policy is to support the interests of big business and not civilians or solve a humanitarian crisis.The majority of conflicts our forces have been involved in since the end of World War II have been a result of our foreign policy and international position, plus our alleged ‘special relationship’ with the government of the USA. This is a price being paid in blood and taxpayer’s money. A progressive Mercia Assembly must campaign for a drastic shift in both our defence policy and our foreign policy.

A progressive Mercia Assembly should oppose the use of British forces to be used in all military ventures that have no concern to Britain and humanity. Ultimately decisions such as going to war should not rest with the government but with the people. This would have prevented British forces being involved in several overseas conflicts from Korea to the present day.

In the so called ‘War against Terror’ it has come to light the complete inadequacies of equipment supplied to British troops. Yet soldiers have suffered such inadequacies for decades, which clearly demonstrates the lack of respect British governments have for their forces, not to mention families and loved ones of service personnel. What is the logic of spending billions on nuclear warheads that are impractical to use when we cannot even supply troops with the means of stopping bullets and roadside bombs?

A progressive Mercia Assembly should campaign to get back to basics and a defence policy to protect Britain and its waters. For example we do not need a navy whose priority is to patrol the Persian Gulf, we need one that will act as a deterrent against drug and gun running and the exploitation of people smuggling, as well as protecting the livelihoods of fishermen. A change in British foreign policy from international interference, to one of concentrating on affairs at home,

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would immediately negate the necessity of items such as nuclear weapons. These are ‘offensive’ weapons for use in international conflicts and would be of little use in actual ‘defence’.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would campaign for British forces to have the highest degree of training, including guerrilla tactics as part of decentralised dispersed forces operating in small units.It would oppose the merging of regiments within the army, which often gives them no real sense of local identity. Therefore it would promote abandoning the move towards large merged regiments, and the creation of county militias or restoration of local regiments.

A progressive Mercia Assembly believes defence of a nation should not necessarily mean conflict with other nations, but actually looking after the local population. This means enabling our military personnel to immediately assist the population in the increasing likelihood of ecological disasters such as flooding, sea wall breaches and disasters or major accidents wherever they occur. It also means local control of defences such as fishery protection vessels.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would not permit foreign military bases in the region. Where there are cuts to the defence budget, we should promote job diversification and for this to be put this in place prior to any cuts and job losses. (Also read the Peace policies in this document)

DIRECT DEMOCRACYSuccessive governments have made decisions often against the will of the public (such as going to war) and denied the public a vote on other issues when clearly there is support for a referendum). A new, radical Mercia would adopt a system of Direct Democracy similar to the highly successful system used in Switzerland, where the most important decisions are decided by the people.

However we also need to recognise it’s necessary for the people to have a greater understanding of everyday affairs and politics in general and not simply believe what they are spoon fed by the establishment’s tool in the form of the mainstream media. Community discussion and education in current affairs would allow the views of grass roots communities to be recognised as well as stimulating greater interest by the general public in politics.

DRUGSWe have to recognise the so called ‘war on drugs’ is being lost. The more money spent and the more draconian sentences handed out do not seem to be dealing with the issue. The fact is more and more younger people across Mercia are now experimenting with drugs. Therefore we must look at out of the box solutions to the issue of drug abuse, dealing and trafficking.

Firstly, we need to tackle the many social issues which cause people to turn to drugs. We need to speak to former addicts for direction on this and use their experiences positively in dealing with social concerns and educating others against drug abuse.

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Secondly we have to look at traffickers and dealers and tackle the greed and self interest in society which attracts people to deal in drugs. Therefore part of the stiff penalties for drug traffickers and dealers must be a re-education programme. Last but not least, we need to recognise drug fuels other crimes, with people committing offences to fuel their habits, and actually do something about this.

To deal with the latter, instead of addicts going to their dealers for drugs, they could attend registered centres where they will receive both help and drugs and not face criminal prosecution. This decriminalising will remove the need for addicts to turn to criminal offences such as burglary in order to fuel their addiction, thus stifling dealers of clients and an income. At the same time attendance would lead users to participate in programmes at specialist care and rehabilitation centres to assist them in becoming clean of drugs. We have to recognise the massive problem we have with drug abuse and fully fund these centres to carry out their work.

This ‘out of the box’ approach is necessary to deter drug abuse as there is not a simple quick fix solution. The present system is definitely not working, and only by speaking with former addicts and even dealers can we get more to the heart of the social issues which create drug abuse.

The personal use of drugs such as cannabis is an entirely different matter. Admittedly in certain circumstances, cannabis use can lead to harder drugs, but in the majority of cases this is more down to peer pressure, social or mental conditions rather than an urge to try something stronger. In the same way not everyone that enjoys a glass of shandy eventually becomes an alcoholic. This is why we believe there needs to be a debate to look at this issue. The potential for legalisation and regulated use of drugs such as cannabis should not be ruled out.

ECONOMY & INDUSTRYThe present economic system sees big businesses and their corporate capitalist doctrine practically pulling the strings of our economy. In reality, we are little more than a colony of such business empires, under foreign economic domination by global corporations. This has caused boom and bust economics, and as we have seen with the banking industry, a situation where those at the top cream off the profits with little regards to the consequences. Industry has a social responsibility to manage economic changes and put a human face to business practices. Businesses also have to be sustainable and have a minimum impact on the environment. At present the inhuman profit first society we live in would never allow such practices, as profit is the only priority.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would favour a decentralised planned economy where members of a society, acting with equal economic power, democratically plan economic activity.

In a new, radical Mercia this thinking would work towards creating full employment, by removing the greed of the present economic system which only sees the survival of the most successful or ruthless, and replacing this with an economy based on mutual benefit. Such an economy would be planned on a regional and local basis for the benefit of the wider society, as opposed to the few. Long term a new, radical Mercia would see democratic community ownership of business.

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In the case of utility companies, a progressive Mercia Assembly would not necessarily favour old fashioned state ownership. In a new, radical Mercia the utilities would be under regional control with a great deal of worker involvement in ownership and management. In effect, to an extent this would be a form of regional co-operative management. The railways and waterways could also be brought under similar ownership.

Despite regional ownership and management, there would need to be networking with other regions to maintain supply and reliability of services.

This system would bring to an end the reign of fat cat directors and shareholders, who certainly in the case of some of the utility companies are bleeding the public dry. This system would also ensure ownership of these businesses remain working for the interests of the people and widen common ownership of the economy.

In a new, radical Mercia unfair competition should not be permitted to drive companies out of business. Competition if allowed to become its own master can destroy jobs and even communities. Small companies, co-operatives and business networks need to be nurtured and encouraged. In a new, radical Mercias more small independent local businesses, community owned businesses and workers co-operatives need to be encouraged, with incentives created and the economic conditions for them to thrive. Therefore within Mercia some form of central planning is required in the form of strict guidelines to ensure economic survival, and a progressive tax and rating system where large corporations pay their fair share instead of the burden falling on the shoulders of small retailers.

As part of this economic planning, an infrastructure needs to be introduced whereby local economic communities would communicate with others to manage and transfer commodities.

It is regrettable over the years, Mercia, as well as the rest of Britain has lost many industries either due to foreign competition or selling of companies to foreign investors or asset strippers. In a new, radical Mercia, such a practice would be frowned upon. Where a private company is in difficulty and it is vital to the economy of Mercia, regional government should be able to purchase a ‘golden share’ to prevent it from folding or falling into the hands of overseas asset strippers. By offering this ‘golden share’, important businesses and jobs can be saved. The golden share could be made available to a worker’s or community co-operative at a later date if there is interest, or remain in the hands of the regional government to safeguard workers interests.

However some businesses have simply sold up and moved abroad. In a new, radical Mercia legislation would be introduced stating the business must be offered to the workforce or community to run as a co-operative. This again would prevent unemployment and provide a sense of value to the workforces who take over. Favourable financial conditions and training could be made available for newly established co-operatives in a bid to help them succeed. The government could take a part share in the business to provide the economic safety net, but ultimately the management would be under the direct control of the workforce.

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It is clear for anyone to see that mass unemployment has severe social implications. Therefore in a new, radical Mercia investment would be provided into key areas of the economy with the aim of creating full employment. Labour and Tory regimes have also lacked the courage to invest in people, preferring instead to hire overseas contractors or import technology rather than developing our own. Yet we do have many skilled tradesmen, some of whom are out of work. Where there is a recognised skills shortage, we need to train people and help establish businesses to provide the necessary services. We need to encourage training and invest in research and development to ensure we have the labour force, the jobs and technologies to help the economy and create long term full employment in Mercia.

Wages are another area where a massive gap has appeared between the rich and poor. Through progressive taxation we can ensure the levelling of this gap to 10 – 1 between the highest and lowest paid workers, instead of the massive 200-1+ it is at present. Progressive taxation would also allow the introduction of a real living wage.

In the case of imported goods, a new, radical Mercia would be a beacon in shining a new progressive way forward. A progressive Mercia Assembly would claim responsibility for goods and produce imported into the region. This would mean increased tax duty could be introduced on all goods that do not meet high standards in pollution control as well as high standards of worker and animal welfare. This could be redirected into making home produced products more economic and putting pressure on overseas producers to adhere to better practices. A percentage of the additional taxation could also be made available to those fighting for worker or animal rights internationally.

Internationally, a progressive Mercia Assembly would be a voice in favour of co-operation and trade bartering, especially with progressive countries and regions around the world. If the essentials for society are provided for such a trade bartering system then it becomes viable and it negates productivity being used for the purpose of simply profit. The arms trade and so called defence industry is a major employer in Mercia. In a new, radical Mercia being a hub of the weapons of destruction industry is not the way forward. A progressive Mercia Assembly would campaign to end this country’s involvement in the evils of the international arms trade and for job diversification to prevent any job losses.

EDUCATIONEducation has lost its way and today preference is given to a schools position in a league table, rather than educating students and preparing them for the 21st century. In addition to this school classes and indeed schools themselves are too large. There is a need for more schools and smaller classes, and in a new, radical Mercia this shall be brought about.

There can be no finer investment than in tomorrow’s generation, yet through neglect and cutbacks you wouldn’t think so. It would be the priority of a progressive, Mercia Assembly to offer free education from pre-school to university graduation as part of investment in the education programme. We need to educate on the basics of education and teaching pupils the skill of how to learn to learn. With age, a more wide range of subjects relevant to the world of today can be taught,

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providing pupils with an academic education and an understanding of the world in which we live. This is why subjects such as current affairs and politics should be taught, to encourage the citizens of tomorrow to have just as much interest in the running of their country as they do in who is appearing on X Factor. In addition to this, it’s important the life skill of first aid training should be compulsory in schools.

In the ‘grammar versus comprehensive’ debate, there should not be a divided system or establishing academies. Instead, in a new, radical Mercia a revised comprehensive system would be created, with smaller schools, smaller class sizes and co-operation through the sharing of facilities. This would prevent the current situation of grammar schools receiving preferential treatment in some areas at the expense of comprehensives. A central focus on the common good instead of individualism will help bring this about.

The school league table system and schools’ competing against each other academically is flawed and wrong. Surely it is the responsibility of those in education to provide the best education, and not create a school system of haves and have not’s. In a new, radical Mercia there would be less academic competition between schools and more co-operation, allowing schools to share facilities for the benefit of the next generation.

Education has suffered over the years from greater emphasis being given to individualism. In schools this has created an 'elite' and in society selfishness and greed. In a new, radical Mercia a school environment would be created where brighter pupils assist those less able, so the class progresses collectively, and pride is attained in the success of the class. This will help all pupils in schools and society itself as this ethos becomes everyday social practice. The practice of teaching would be educating our young people to work towards the good of society, and not simply individual advancement and greed.

A new, radical Mercia would gradually see the phasing out of private schools which unfairly discriminate against pupils from poorer backgrounds. Financial restraints should not impede education. It would see an element of Mercia history and culture taught, with the Mercia flag flown at all schools.

In a new, radical Mercia, Education should be free for all for life, allowing people to further themselves academically and providing them with knowledge and skills to improve their lives.

ELECTORAL ACCOUNTABILITYThere should be ‘No Power Without Accountability’, regardless of what voting system is used. Elected representatives should not be free to do almost what they like, safe in the knowledge that they'll be picking up a nice income at the electorates expense for 5 years, with a possible golden handshake if they get voted out.

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We believe elected representatives need to be held accountable 24/7, not once every 4/5 years. One way forward to ensure this may mean some form of participatory democracy, which would see the electorate taking more responsibility.

Through discussions with the citizens of Mercia a way forward will be found to introduce open, fair and balanced checks to make elected representatives accountable between elections, particularly with regards to expenses and the option of recall elections.

ENERGYIt is inevitable any progressive regional government will inherit nuclear energy. Therefore it is essential that we impose the strictest safety conditions on all nuclear power plants and waste during transit and disposal. However it’s important to recognise nuclear energy is not the cleanest fuel available and the mining of uranium necessary for these power plants is extremely environmentally damaging. Likewise the mining of Thorium and even its disposal is still not environmentally friendly..

A progressive Mercia Assembly would support investment into research and development of all renewable and alternative forms of energy. Currently money spent on research and development in these fields is like a drop in the ocean, which is why we have to import such technology and many of the experts that go with it. A new, radical Mercia would fully play its part in such research and development.

There have been some fantastic advancements in sources of renewable energy, especially solar power, and a new, radical Mercia needs to take full advantage of this. New properties, including warehousing, offices and industrial units could be constructed to take advantage of renewable energy such as solar and ground source heat pumps.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would oppose the profiteering reign of private ownership of energy. In a new, radical Mercia there would be democratic ownership by the regional government in addition to democratically controlled Renewable Energy Collectives in towns, villages and local communities. Initial funding should be made available to establish these.

Micro energy plants are another often ignored method of generating power. We need to look at the whole of Mercia and encourage greater use of these methods as well as the conservation of energy. The use and often dangerous exploration into ‘fracking’ would have no place in a new, radical Mercia.

ENGLAND & REGIONAL DEVOLUTIONIf we examine the present devolution settlement, we can see that both England and Cornwall were excluded. This was undemocratic. However England as a whole may be too large to have its own government, as the result would be its power houses would remain in the hands of the same people in the same areas. This would not be a step towards greater democracy and decentralisation in any sense. A far better form of government would be for the historical regions of England such as Mercia

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to have their own Assemblies with the same powers currently devolved to Scotland to deal with the day to day issues. Representatives from the Regional Assemblies would then sit on a periodic basis as an English National Council to deal with issues of national importance. In the case of all nations of the present United Kingdom deciding upon independence, a progressive Mercia Assembly would support the creation of an Anglo-Celtic Confederation, so close ties and co-operation is nurtured. Membership of this confederation could also be extended to the Republic of Ireland.

In a new, radical Mercia, greater decentralisation and democracy can be obtained through a modern form of ‘Moot democracy’ with neighbourhood councils as the lower tier of this helping to influence decisions carried out locally and across the region.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would completely oppose the narrow minded and often xenophobic ‘Little Englander’ attitude of what is commonly called English nationalism. Such nationalism is poisonous and divisive and works against the principles of a progressive inclusive society.

ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGYOne thing all of us have to recognise is that ecology encompasses everything. If we tip the scales of ecology, it upsets the perfect balance. This is why a progressive Mercia Assembly would have sustainable practices at the heart of its agenda. A new, radical Mercia would be fully committed to protecting our precious environment and playing its part in the international battle against climate change.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would see the introduction of measures whereby the polluter and not the ordinary taxpayer pay the bulk for helping to returning the region to the true green and pleasant land it once was. In simple terms the most polluting industries should pay more.

Agriculture is another area which over the years has contributed to damaging the environment. Gradually things are changing, with more and more farmers and smallholders working with nature and not against it. A progressive Mercia Assembly would reduce food miles and ensure farming practices more sustainable and environmentally friendly. Once again research and development into new environmentally conscious farming practices will assist this quest.

We need to recognise we cannot continue to plunder the planet of its finite resources, and must work towards the long term goal of minimum or next to zero extraction. Those employed in these industries would be retrained and through commitment to full employment found other suitable employment.

A new, radical Mercia would see the introduction of cleaner and greener energy with greater research and development into alternative and renewable methods of generation. Where possible, new properties, including commercial premises, would be fitted with some form of renewable energy generation, as well as heat and energy conservation measures. Conventional and refused

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derived fuelled power stations would be equipped with the latest pollution reducing and energy saving systems, which in the long term would reduce costs as well as benefitting the environment.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would tackle the path currently being taken towards the grid locking of our roads. Car ownership is on the increase and it is easy to see that at some stage we are going to reach the critical point where there is simply no room for any more vehicles on our road network. Building more and more roads is not an option. Therefore, although it may not be popular, we must consider raising the age in which people are allowed to drive on the road, and following mass investment in public transport, a cut off point where people have to stop driving. Some political parties intend to try and tax car drivers off the road, yet this will only have a detrimental effect on the poorest members of society. In a new, radical Mercia the pockets of the poorest would not be hit as other solutions are found for reducing car use. In a truly progressive society, groups such as RoadPeace and the Campaign for Better Transport should be included in any discussions on transport. The environment has to be put first, and not a policy just to win votes of motorists.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would support the introduction of ‘Community Car Pools’ partially funded via a transport policy.

There needs to be practical options to the car and a fully integrated transport system involving road, rail, water and air is the only suitable alternative. In addition to regular public transport, Post Bus services should also be encouraged either as an additional service or where it is impossible for a regular service to operate.

Housing and road building has had a detrimental effect upon the environment with the green belt surrounding towns and cities as well green field sites in the countryside continually under threat. We need to grasp the nettle and look at how we can work towards transforming Mercia from a land living beyond its social and ecological means into one that is sustainable.

The green belt needs to be spared from future development. Large out of town superstores should be discouraged in favour of investment in local shops in our cities, towns and villages. We believe in encouraging the formation of local trade co-operatives of independent traders working together.

EQUALITYUnfortunately we live in a land of inequality. This can lead to social unrest and destroy the potential for harmony in both the community and the workplace. Positive discrimination (albeit well meaning) in some cases, as well as racial, sexual and physical, has contributed to undermining equality, with tales very often whipped up and exaggerated by the Tory gutter press. ALL forms of discrimination are wrong and would have no place in a new, radical Mercia. Laws would be strengthened where necessary to deliver greater fairness and real equality. The ultimate aim must be to create an egalitarian society where all are valued and where all genuinely are equal. A far greater emphasis on education and increased legislation is therefore necessary to bring about such as society. A new, radical Mercia would be a place where all respected.

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EUROPE &THE EUROPEAN UNIONA progressive Mercia Assembly would be supportive of international movements designed to secure peace, freedom, international co-operation for sustainable world development and economic and social justice. The present structure of the EU does not currently fulfil such criteria and is instead by and large is undemocratic, highly centralised and bureaucratic.

Admittedly there have been benefits of our membership, but these have come at an enormous cost, and what is given with one hand by the EU is very often taken away with the other. A classic example of this is its opposition to nationalised industries and collective bargaining and support for almost unregulated competition. This results in a race to the bottom in terms of wages and conditions and leads to a lack of job security and redundancies. Therefore conditions won are negated by the overall profit driven obsession of the EU, enforced competition and its survival of the fittest mindset.

There is also the centralised ideology of the EU which can overrule the wishes of the local community. A progressive Mercia Assembly would oppose such diktat, believing sovereignty should reside with the people and that responsibility for decision-making should be retained at the most local level possible.

There needs to be co-operation on a European wide level, on human welfare, workers rights, animal welfare, environmental and sustainability issues and of course encouraging sustainable trade. Such trade should see exchanging of services and bartering between nations and regions and not necessarily based on delivering the highest profits. This would put people before big business. Currently this does not exist within the EU diktat.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would campaign for a Co-operative European Alliance working on principles of social welfare, bartering of services and produce and mutual economic aid. It would call for Mercia to be formally recognised as a European region.

EUTHANASIAThrough a Mercia Wide debate, a progressive Mercia Assembly would promote people having the right to die with dignity at a time of their own choosing. We believe such a decision should not be made when an individual is suffering or in medical decline, but in a ‘Living Testament’ at the age of 18 or beyond, and at regular periods throughout that person’s life. Certain religions may oppose this, but it needs to be stressed individuals were given their own mind to decide what is best for them, and in this their decision has to be respected. However, any legislation which would lead to the massive elimination of the elderly and "incompetent," and anyone else the British government or pressure groups consider to be a burden to society should be fundamentally rejected.

FAMILY & COMMUNITY VALUESThe decline in community and family values has been a contributory factor in the decline in our society. This can clearly be witnessed by the increase in anti-social behaviour, alcohol and drug abuse, teenage pregnancies and general lack of respect and discipline. We now have an underclass

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in society created largely by an economic system which is increasing in numbers and which has absolutely no idea of mutual benefit or a sense of community. The responsibility for this should not fall on the individual but on the shoulders of the political elite. It is their system which has imposed social and economic exploitation upon ordinary people destroying families and communities and any sense of the values that goes with them. The underclass is a tool created by and maintained by the political elite to further divide ordinary people whilst increasing the powers of those at the top of the ladder.

In a new, radical Mercia installing community and family values would not happen overnight. Financial pressures and stress related to this often drives families apart. Commercial pressure, wanting the very latest ‘must have’ item can also put pressure on some poorer families. But through progressive policies these issues could be tackled. In schools we need to introduce an education system that promotes family respect and being part of the community. This education system needs to be ongoing, through social workers where there are family difficulties, and in the custodial system when dealing with offenders.

Families need to spend time together and space to breathe. Society has not developed like this, communities, where once most families knew and supported each other, have been destroyed, and more and more people are being forced to live on top of each other in crowded conditions. Working practices have also meant less time spent as a functioning family unit. As well as education, these factors need to be dealt with through economic and benefit reform, placing less stress on the individual and allowing more family leisure time.

In simple terms just talking about family values and a sense of community will not work, we have to deal with all the issues that have seen their demise and create a society and conditions in the workplace and socially that can help them flourish. A progressive Mercia Assembly, which truly cares about the region and its people, could achieve this.

FISHING INDUSTRYIn a new, radical Mercia fishing would be looked upon from supporting the sustainability of fish stocks and species and the economic survival of our fishermen. It is a fact that continental fishing vessels plunder our coastal waters and dredge our sea beds, damaging stocks and breeding grounds of many species as a direct result of the marketing for profit system which currently exists.

For economical and sustainability reasons we need to protect our fishing grounds and stocks. This means giving Mercia its own territorial waters, thus protecting the smaller, local based fishermen who are so often ignored. Until fish stocks recover sufficiently within these waters, we need to impose a ban on all continental vessels. This ban needs to remain in place until stocks recover. A progressive Mercia Assembly would introduce an economic policy on the exchange of trade and bartering to ensure no community at home or abroad suffers as a result of claiming our territorial waters and therefore avoiding trade wars and conflict at sea. This would work through greater co-operation between fishing fleets and less competition. Co-operation needs to exist across national and regional boundaries. Therefore an excess of one breed of fish harvested could be made available

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to other countries and regions.

To act as a deterrent, fishing vessels caught operating illegally would have their nets and catch confiscated, the vessel impounded and a fine levied on the skipper and the vessels owners. If this fine is not paid within 30 days the vessel would become the property of the local fishing community.

In order to assist in the replenishing of stocks fish and shellfish, investment is required in a number of hatchery schemes managed under democratic public ownership. The process and technology used in this could see the services of this hatchery sold to other nations, or exchanged for other services. This would go towards making Mercia a potential world leader in this field and creating employment opportunities.

To protect the income of fishermen a progressive Mercia Assembly would establish buying cooperatives run by fishermen and a system of minimum landing prices to provide a stable income.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would ensure fish farming is a humane practice and bring an end to the cruelty that currently exists within this trade.

FOREIGN POLICYAt one time Britain had an empire which stretched across the four corners of the globe. Sadly, it still behaves as if it has that empire, costing the lives of our armed forces personnel and the taxpayer’s money.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would play its part in helping to create a better world, supporting international co-operation and support and all those working for social, environmental, economic justice and animal welfare.

A new, radical Mercia would oppose its regiments and forces based in the region being involved in military interference unless it is in the defence of our country, those overseas territories we still retain links with or rescuing our citizens trapped abroad.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would frown upon trade deals with countries and regions that do not have a decent level of human rights and animal welfare. Big business should not dictate foreign policy and a progressive Mercia Assembly would foster relations with progressive, regimes and political movements overseas.

Although a region, a new, radical Mercia should not be afraid to have an international voice. A progressive Mercia Assembly would be a voice of reason in an ever increasingly divided and hostile world.

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GAY RIGHTSA progressive Mercia Assembly would be firm believers in a progressive egalitarian society, and therefore fervently defend 'gay rights'. The hatred directed towards this sector of our society in the past and present is a complete disgrace and shows the narrow mindedness of the system we live in to make anti-homosexual behaviour the social norm.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would call for complete equal rights for homosexual people and same sex relationships. This includes age of consent regulations. The present law holds no reason other than to segregate homosexual people.

GLOBALISATIONPower is constantly being transferred from people and small businesses to large faceless and often heartless global institutions and corporations. Companies based in Mercia relocate to the lands of cheap labour bringing unemployment to our doorsteps and increasing sweatshop conditions overseas.

For community and sustainable reasons alone we need to steer from the global path. Decisions need to be made by the people and not global corporations. We need businesses to survive and prosper, making products and creating employment and not exploiting workers via lower wages and poor conditions in so called developing nations.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would encourage others to take the path of sustainability, localism and not globalisation, redirecting power from the faceless boardrooms of multi-national corporations to the people and local communities across the world.

GLOUCESTERSHIRE & OXFORDSHIREThe counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire are ones which regionalists of Mercia and Wessex have debated for many years. A progressive Mercia Assembly would allow the people of both counties to weigh matters up historically, culturally and politically and decide via a referendum which region they wish to be in.

GUNS & WEAPONSIn some communities, people suffering the effects of crime may look at obtaining weapons for their own protection. This sadly is the face of the downward spiral of society and local communities, with decent law abiding citizens possessing offensive weapons for their own protection.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would see the answer as rebuilding communities, tackling greed and self-interest which is prevalent in society and more efficient police units of the community actually based in the community.

The introduction of strict gun laws and licensing of weapons such as cross bows, air weapons and knives, also has to be seen as a positive move in delivering peace and security to our streets as well

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as reducing attacks on pets. Stiffer penalties for illegal trade in such weapons would also be a priority of a progressive Mercia Assembly.

HEALTHHealth care should not start after you become ill, but by taking preventative measures before illness or serious health issues occur. Therefore there needs to be a lifelong education programme on preventative health care. Cycling and walking to school needs to be promoted as well as better advice on healthy eating, plus alcohol and drug abuse. In a new, radical Mercia a more stress free lifestyle needs be promoted both socially and economically with affordable and if feasible basic free membership of gyms and health clubs encouraged. An environmental taxation system whereby the polluter pays would be rolled out to cover health care, with tobacco companies and large fast food outlets paying an additional tax to fund health care and preventative health care measures. A new, radical Mercia could lead the way with such measures.

HOUSINGLike many other areas of the country, Mercia is suffering from a housing crisis with increasing numbers of people sleeping rough or in accommodation that does not suit their needs. This crisis is largely caused by social conditions as a direct result of mismanagement of the economy by Westminster governments and worsened by thousands of empty or derelict properties or office blocks that are currently unused. Second homes are another major issue across Mercia that needs addressing, especially in areas where property prices are inflated because of this. It is criminal that successive Westminster governments have ignored these issues or at best simply paid them lip service.

The construction of ‘some’ new housing is necessary, but this alone will not completely alleviate the problem as some politicians predict. In fact to continuously build more houses is simply not environmentally sustainable and would be damaging to the countryside and natural environment of Mercia.

Another reason why the ‘keep on building’ philosophy is not solely the answer is because to accurately estimate the number of properties required you need a reasonable estimate on future population figures. However under the European Union policy of free movement of labour, (now referred to as the free movement of people), there can be no accurate prediction of current or future population. This does not work in the interests of Mercia.

Building more properties is also a speculators charter. This is why many housing developments are not based on people’s needs, but the greed of the developers and why we see more profitable ‘executive’ type properties as opposed to properties that are truly affordable.

Many properties are even sold to overseas investors who do not even pay Capital Gains Tax on profits when the properties are sold. Even ‘tweaking’ of the Capital Gains Tax system will still result in large sums of money leave the country tax free.

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To prevent this pillaging of the housing market, a progressive Mercia Assembly would adopt legislation similar to how countries such as Singapore and Switzerland manage their housing stock. In Singapore, individuals and foreign companies and societies are not permitted to purchase vacant land or landed residential property, such as bungalows, terraced houses and semi-detached houses. Meanwhile in Switzerland there are strict regulations on property and land sales to non-Swiss purchasers. By adopting similar lines in Mercia, this will ensure taxes are paid and our housing stock is suitably managed.

In the rental sector we cannot ignore the selling off of council housing has coincided with a rise in the number of rogue landlords. In 2013 the GMB union looked into who owns former council houses and found that nationally 40 per cent are now owned by buy-to-let landlords. The union discovered that Charles Gow, the son of Thatcher’s housing Minister Ian Gow who planned the right to buy scheme, and his wife own 40 properties in just one South London housing estate.

In addition to abolishing the right to buy council houses, a progressive Mercia Assembly would reverse the loss in housing stock through the sale of council houses, buy back some former properties and build new homes local residents. Building more houses without control on speculation will lead to further speculation. But with controls in place councils are in the best position to meet the needs of their residents.

It is also important to look at the type of new housing that is required. We can no longer look at green field sites because of the environmental impact, and therefore on the majority of occasions we should be looking at derelict sites and brown field options. Unless there is a proven need otherwise, new housing has to be affordable, eco-efficient with the majority available to first time buyers and young families. There are far too many executive and luxury homes being built for a small percentage of the population. New housing should be close to the basic local amenities with adequate space so people are not forced to live on top of each other.

At present the only people that really gain from the housing market are property developers and speculators. The housing market is therefore just another example of uncontrolled capitalism. The prime objective of housing is to provide homes for people and not huge fortunes for developers and speculators. Therefore local authorities would be given the opportunity to cap property prices both on the open market and in the rental sector, and create a section of the affordable housing market that would be available to local people only. This would deter second home ownership and affordable properties being purchased by profiteering private landlords.

The situation of long term empty properties needs to be reviewed. Its immoral such properties are allowed to remain empty for years in some cases whilst people struggle for somewhere to live. A progressive Mercia Assembly would allow local authorities the right to review any property that has been unoccupied for 18 months or more. Where no realistic attempt has been made to sell the property, and where there are no legal difficulties, local authorities would be given the option to compulsory purchase.

The problem of rogue landlords is an issue which cannot be ignored. In order tackle this issue; a progressive Mercia Assembly would introduce a ‘Rogue Landlord Register’. This would give an

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element of control over the private rented sector, with compulsory inspection of rented properties, with convicted landlords placed on the register and banned from letting properties unless they meet criteria. Failure to meet such criteria would see compulsory purchase of the property by the local authority.

As a further deterrent to the increasing number of second home owners and private landlords, legislation would be introduced in a new, radical Mercia limiting the number of properties individuals or couples are allowed to own to just two.

There is a need for additional properties in the rented sector, with possibly local authorities buying back some former council houses that come on to the market as well as where necessary building new properties. Rental on council properties would be lower for those that maintain the appearance of the property and gardens to a respectable standard. Those that are physically incapable of this would be assisted free of charge via a Community Public Works Scheme. This would act as an incentive to create a better community and local environment. Where possible, maintenance would be carried out by people actually living in the area to further pride in their community.

HUNTINGAnimal welfare is the benchmark of any progressive society. Therefore the cruel practice of hunting an animal with hounds would have no place in a new, radical Mercia. Hunting an animal with dogs is not sport, but a barbaric method of supposed pest control which inflicts unnecessary suffering to the animal. It has no place in any modern progressive society.

IMMIGRATION & MIGRATION In a great number of ways immigration has benefitted Mercia, and has influenced food, music and fashion. In some circumstances there have also been benefits in the local community by getting jobs carried out many of the indigenous population shy away from. Additional revenue collected from taxes can also not be ignored. However, due to complete mismanagement by central government and its of lack of investment and funding, there has also been negative aspects such as competition for jobs, pressure on housing, health care, education and policing. This is through no fault of the immigrant or migrant worker, as the root of the blame has to rest with those who wish to exploit the individual for their labour and the economic system as a whole.

The ultimate goal internationally for a progressive Mercia Assembly would be for a free, sustainable and egalitarian world where national boundaries and prejudices offer no barriers to those who wish to exercise freedom of movement. Though internationally we need to work towards this goal, we have to recognise under the present economic system peoples and resources will always face exploitation through complete freedom of movement. Therefore, until a free, sustainable and egalitarian world or even a co-operative alliance of countries exists, both nationally and regionally there needs to be non-racist, sustainable immigration policies.

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An open door immigration policy would simply be unsustainable in the present world, just it would be impossible and unfair to implement a zero immigration policy. Present immigration laws could also be described as ‘racist’ as they discriminate against certain cultures. Therefore we need to introduce an immigration policy which is flexible, fair, does not discriminate on any grounds and above all is sustainable. As Westminster governments have failed to do this, there is nothing preventing a progressive Mercia Assembly making a stand for this.

Internationally we need to campaign and co-operate with organisations to reduce the economic, political and environmental factors that force people to migrate. The Single European Market, created by the Tory government with the Single European Act in 1987, created a pool of workers to be exploited, working for lower wages in poorer conditions.

The so-called ‘free movement’ of labour is part of the development to undermine wages and working conditions. If ‘food-miles’ represent an unacceptably large carbon footprint, then ‘labour-miles’ and shunting human beings around Europe in the pursuit of profit is equally as damaging, both in terms of human welfare. The drive for cheap labour and exploitation of workers in the sex trade increases human trafficking.

Nevertheless in a new, radical Mercia we have to recognise skills shortages occur from time to time in certain industries, and therefore there is a need for migrant labour. In fact many services, including the NHS would not be able to function without the valuable input of migrant labour. Therefore a progressive Mercia Assembly would promote equality stipulating that any migrants should not form a 'cheap labour' market, but should be paid accordingly to their skills the same rates those born in this country, and receive the same rights and benefits.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would promote a managed immigration policy based on fairness, sustainability and equality, and which will not make Mercia a playground for the rich who wish to settle here or those wishing to exploit the labour market.

INTERNATIONALISMA progressive Mercia Assembly would be supportive of international movements designed to secure peace, freedom, international co-operation for sustainable world development and social justice. It would oppose economic, environmental and social exploitation, war, discrimination and persecution of people and animals.

It would speak out for a fully democratic United Nations with representatives of countries and regions directly elected by the people.

IRELANDMercia has a sizable Irish population from both sides of the community. Therefore a progressive Mercia Assembly would recognise this community may still have family back in Ireland and therefore work towards resolving any large scale conflict re-emerging in the north of Ireland.

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The province of Ulster is now relatively peaceful compared to the troubles of the latter part of the 20th century. Nonetheless problems still exist, as the root cause of problems has not gone away. History plays a big part in the problems past and present of Ulster. Those that simply call for a complete, no compromise united Ireland fail to recognise generations of Protestant history in the north of the island cannot be completely eradicated. Likewise, many Loyalists fail to recognise the majority in the nationalist community will never completely recognise British rule.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would put forward a third option of an Ulster Assembly, in a united Ireland, with close ties to the other home nations, brought to the table. Ultimately the final decision should rest with the people of Ulster. Only when people from all backgrounds work towards mutual benefit can all the issues be resolved.

JOBSJobs and employment are beneficial, not only in terms of the economy and people’s wages but the value they bring to people’s lives. It is a well established fact, crime increases when there is high unemployment. Therefore a progressive Mercia Assembly would invest in job creation, creating full employment and saving jobs, instead of paying in other ways such as dealing with the social disorder and increases in crime due to unemployment. This is pure progressive thinking, creating something 'positive' (jobs) to help deal with something which is 'negative' (unemployment & crime).

A new, radical Mercia would see a maximum 38 hour working week, industrial and trade union recognition and payment of a living wage to all workers.

JUSTICEA new, radical Mercia would usher in a new way of life and a system where cruelness and exploitation do not exist.

In the higher echelons of power, people have committed crimes against ordinary folk through war, economic and environmental exploitation and corruption. This has also been carried out by those lower down the ladder of authority, carrying out crimes against the people for their own self interest and betterment. There have also been horrific acts of cruelty inflicted upon animals and wildlife.

Through abuse of their position or through fear these perpetrators have gone unpunished for their crimes. In a new, radical Mercia such perpetrators would be brought to justice. (Read also Law & Order)

LANDAs a species the human race cannot exist without land and access to land is important for every citizen. A high proportion of our incomes goes towards renting or buying our homes, whose value is determined mostly in the land and its location. However this represents a concentrated ownership of land, with nationally 1% of the population owning 70% of the land. The concentrated ownership of the most valuable land in few hands, almost free of tax, is the main source of inequality of wealth.

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In a new, radical Mercia every citizen would have the right to land and would be educated as how best to use it. This would encourage respect for land in its relationship with the community as well as nature. A progressive Mercia Assembly would establish a system of land tenure directly related to land use and environmental impact.

LAW AND ORDERWhen tackling the decline in law and order, it is pointless simply having deterrents unless you actually deal with the causes of crime. For example many civil disturbances have been caused out of urgency and a feeling of people not being listened to rather than people just out to cause problems.

A progressive education policy (as detailed in this platform) would encourage family and community cohesion, as will the greater sense of local power and ownership. This will help reduce many of the causes of crime. In addition to this, an increase in youth activities will eliminate many of the current problems related to anti-social behaviour.

To enhance this, a new, radical Mercia would favour greater powers for tenants in social housing estates to have a say in the running of their estates and in the housing of future tenants – removing the power of faceless local authority officials who dump problem families onto estates and in doing so destroy the sense of community. Soc called problems families would not necessarily be ignored, as through education and if absolutely necessary punishment via the law, it is hoped such people can eventually become good citizens and valuable members of the local community.

In a new, radical Mercia, local Neighbourhood Watch schemes would be given more funding, but this would be accompanied by a physical presence on the estates by a local police force, accountable to local people. A new, radical Mercia would see the emphasis on local policing, and reinstating police houses as part of a community policing strategy, allowing the public to know their local officers and local officers to know the public. We need officers who can become familiar with the local community and its problems.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would work to reclaim town and city centres which are plagued by violence. This can be achieved by greater enforcement of current By-laws on public drunkenness and violent behaviour, and by better scrutiny of planning applications for bars, regulation of opening hours, and the levy of fees on bars and other drinking establishments. The latter would fund both a local police presence and that of medical and public transport facilities. Public misbehaviour through drunkenness must be met by absolute zero tolerance and the present taking over of some hospital A&E department by throngs of drunks needs to be brought to an end.

A new, radical Mercia would see more severe punishments for street attacks to help deter late night violence and gang culture. A progressive Mercia Assembly would favour looking at the social consequences of offenders and work to rectify these background situations that exist and contribute towards lawlessness.

Gang related crime is now regrettably a serious problem in a number of towns and cities in Mercia. This is why a progressive Mercia Assembly would legislate to introduce a minimum sentence of five

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years hard labour for gang related crime and other unprovoked acts of violence. Subsequent convictions should see an offender’s sentence automatically doubled. Part of these sentences would see a programme of rehabilitation and education.

Nevertheless greater law enforcement and regulation is not the only answer. Much social unrest is a result of a human pressure valve where people release their frustrations, and the needs of some individuals to prove they are stronger than others. Both are a result of the uncaring economic system and way of life which has placed people under enormous pressure or coerced them into a ‘law of the jungle’ type mentality. Throughout Britain, there is also the attitude of ‘strong is best’ and a need to demonstrate this. Long term education, both in schools and the community and economic emancipation can eradicate such social unrest.

Laws for carrying firearms and offensive weapons need investigating, with stricter sentences for those with criminal records that flout these laws. In recent times there have been escalating attacks using air weapons, some of which have proved fatal. In a new, radical Mercia air weapons would be brought under the same category as ordinary firearms, with the same penalties for possession of such weapons without a licence and for their misuse.

As well as punishment, a progressive Mercia Assembly would look at preventing crimes happening in the first place. Through improving social conditions and creating employment, rehabilitating offenders and installing a sense of belonging to the community a peaceful society is possible.

In a new, radical Mercia people would not feel isolated from the justice system or the forces of law and order. A progressive Mercia Assembly would be one of local democracy, allowing the people to decide democratically who will be their judges, magistrates and Chief Constables. Such people should have a background in law or law enforcement and not be representatives of political parties.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT A progressive Mercia Assembly is not simply about planting the Wyvern flag on county halls and and maintaining the present political status quo. It would be about decentralising power from central government to local communities, giving local people overall say in the running of their neighbourhoods.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would see large amalgamated councils returned to individual local council status, thus giving local people more say in the running of their area and preventing smaller areas from being ignored by larger neighbouring towns.

A new, radical Mercia would completely transform local government into a far more democratic and inclusive structure which would see society localised, with local people taking an interest and making decisions about their communities, rather than faceless pen-pushers in offices, big businesses or chums of the Mayor.

A new, radical Mercia would see a modern form of ‘Moot Democracy’ with every community across

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the region organise themselves into neighbourhood councils, which could be divisions of present electoral wards. These would be fully participatory and include all members of the local community. The neighbourhood councils would send delegates to (proportional to their population) to larger Community Councils. The community councils would send delegates to higher levels, and the votes of the neighbourhood councils would be tallied and combined by all representatives at all levels. In simple terms, the neighbourhood council is where the decision is made, and the community council is responsible for making sure that the decisions of the neighbourhood councils are carried out at all levels.

The introduction of a Citizens Income Scheme (see Benefits) would also mean more people being able to work part time and devote more time to their communities, possibly as elected representatives. The majority of taxes raised locally would also remain locally.

LOCALISATION OF SOCIETYA progressive Mercia Assembly would introduce a ‘Localisation of Society’ programme to assist in building far greater community awareness and involvement.

In a new, radical Mercia, wherever possible, people would work closer, or even within their own neighbourhood. Through shorter working hours and job sharing, people would have time to develop other skills and participate in community based initiatives. This would lead to an increasing a sense of neighbourliness. Such additional time spent assisting in the community would not replace local services, but add to them, improving the community and building mutual benefit and neighbourhood awareness.

Fairer tax redistribution would help support local shops and businesses. Democratically there would be vast improvements and representation via street and neighbourhood councils. Those that Police our communities would live within our communities, creating a Police force of the community, for the community rather than a politicised tool of central government. Those that maintain community facilities such as parks or help keep our streets tidy, would where possible live in or close to the community they maintain, further installing a sense of pride and care in their locality. Educationally, our young people would have certain parts of their education within the community in which they live, learning about their community and its history, once again developing knowledge and a sense of belonging. Facilities within local schools would be shared, giving pupils the best possible education.

MEDIAThere is no such thing as the ‘free press’ with much of the media in the hands of press barons who have the power to purchase political favour. A progressive Mercia Assembly would work towards management of all the media being transferred to workers and people’s co-operatives. In the printed media it would look towards legislating publications to be produced on recycled paper or by sustainable means. A new, radical Mercia would see a Mercia TV channel and a BBC Mercia.

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MONARCHYThe monarchy is a traditional institution, nevertheless one which can prove costly. Whilst as part of the present United Kingdom or even as part of England, the people of Mercia still have to show allegiance to the crown and accept the monarchy. However there is no reason why a progressive Mercia Assembly cannot speak out for an alternative such as a slimmed down monarchy or an elected head of state. Therefore, as a step towards this, a new, radical Mercia would elect its own ‘head of state’ for the region .

MULTICULTURALISM The desire of a progressive Mercia Assembly would be for all people, of all ethnic origins, to live alongside each other peacefully in an egalitarian society.

People should be proud of their Christian background, or their Pagan, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist etc, etc, and providing it does not breech conditions of human or animal welfare, ALL should be free to worship and celebrate their own traditions.

A truly progressive society should not coerce people of certain faiths to take place in Christian prayers or religious activity either in schools or in the wider community. That is up to the individual. However in a new, radical Mercia, people need to have an understanding of different faiths, (including paganism), and therefore the basics of these need to be taught in schools to all pupils.

Misinformation is a factor which causes resentment amongst people from different cultural backgrounds, with the right wing media very often exaggerating claims and being responsible for creating tension. This is why in a new, radical Mercia there would be greater access to information allowing people to establish the truth instead of reading highly distorted versions in the press. The In a new, radical Mercia different cultures would not be exclusive, but accessible and accepted and a sense of inclusiveness created. This is why it might be necessary to direct funding from individual cultural groups towards cultural integration and understanding.

Different cultures can exist in harmony alongside each other. As a matter of decency, people should respect cultural diversity and believe in equal status and mutual respect. When coercion exists to appease one or another, or information becomes distorted problems then arise. We need to allow all cultures the freedom to exist across cultural divides and for common sense and equality to be promoted. This is why in a new, radical Mercia a citizens’ initiative is needed to create a Declaration of Rights. This Declaration would act as a guideline to how we live, our freedoms and responsibilities. The clock cannot be turned back to 1930's or even beyond that as some elements clearly want. Therefore it is the responsibility of all of us to make our 21st century multicultural society work and improve it in every aspect.

NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICEThe NHS needs to be taken back to its roots, available to all at their time of need, on demand and free of all charges. This should include free dental care, eye care and prescriptions.

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Unfortunately under the watch or the Con-Lab-LibDems, hospital waiting lists in real terms have increased and private health care has prospered on the back of NHS resources. This is why a progressive Mercia Assembly would take drastic and radical action to end to all contracting out of services and the strengthening of primary care through properly funded care based on community, family and individual needs. In the case of private hospital treatment, this should not take place in an NHS hospital. To assist patient’s recovery, a progressive Mercia Assembly would reopen convalescent wards and homes.

In a new, radical Mercia, all hospital staff would be trained to the highest standard. This would include language skills. All work currently outsourced as part of the Thatcherism drive to privatise the NHS would be taken back in-house.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would nurture a more stress free lifestyle, daily exercise as a way of life, and better diet with more naturally produced food, all of which would have preventative health measures.

In addition to a ‘health service’ we have to recognise we live in an increasingly ageing society, and care for the elderly is essential. The creation of a National Care Service as part of the NHS therefore has to be a priority.

The huge profits of the pharmaceutical industry are something that any progressive society should not ignore. A progressive Mercia Assembly would like to see such profits redirected back into research and into the health service and not into the pockets of directors and shareholders. Therefore within a new, radical Mercia there would be democratic public ownership of the pharmaceutical industry.

Though a progressive Mercia Assembly supports a National Health Service, tax reform proposals would see greater local funding and involvement in local NHS services. Less money would be sent to central government for funding M.P’s expenses and overseas military ventures, making more available for providing a decent health service. This would provide a sufficiently funded and equipped NHS.

If the eventual breakup of the United Kingdom came about, a progressive Mercia Assembly would be in favour of a network to ensure the actual NHS is not broken up or sold off. This could come about through legislation via an Anglo Celtic Confederation.

OVERSEAS DEVELOPMENTDom Helder Camara once wrote, ‘When the I give money to the poor they call me a saint. When I ask why people have no food they call me a communist’.

This basically sums up a question which needs to be asked. Why are people starving when there are vast food mountains being maintained for profit for the few? Progressive thinkers believe in ‘feed

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not greed’ and work to destroy the food mountains of economic extremism for the benefit of the people. Globally this would have a vast impact on humanitarian crisis in the developing world.

We also have to look at equality, and the differences between the rich and the poor in the developing world. It’s not right countries that can afford nuclear weapons and a space programme should allow their people to live and more often than not die in poverty. This is why a progressive Mercia Assembly would support those campaigning for equality and fairer distribution of wealth in such countries.

In terms of aid to developing countries, a progressive Mercia Assembly would object to middle men and corrupt regimes profiteering from aid and taking food from the mouths of the needy for purchasing weapons, hosting lavish parties or even hiring prostitutes. This is why financial assistance has to be directed at helping the needy and not the greedy. Funding is required on the ground where it is needed directly to local communities so democratic workers co-operatives can be formed, projects and employment created and health issues tackled.

In a new, radical Mercia, sustainability is of paramount importance, and this would be the focus internationally. Part of any assistance package therefore should include Volunteer Brigades who would be organised to provide education on creating a sustainable community built on progressive and principles.

Through dealing with greed, corruption and offering education, plus assistance in creating co-operatives and living within sustainable means, future humanitarian crisis can be averted. A progressive Mercia Assembly would work to these aims.

PEACE All nations can achieve a decent and dignified quality of life for their citizens. This includes safeguarding the environment and rights of indigenous peoples.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would be a proponent of peace and therefore would oppose aggression or interference by any country or group of countries in the affairs of a sovereign nation or region whose internal affairs should be determined by its own people.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would oppose military alliance agreements that tie the region to multi-national companies and other governments that defend them.

PENSIONS AND THE ELDERLYAny reasonable person will be sickened by the mistreatment of the elderly in this country by uncaring governments, local authorities and those that simply see them as a cash cow to milk in poorly managed care homes. A progressive Mercia Assembly would introduce policies which truly respect the elderly and the skills they can still provide to modern society.

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A progressive Mercia Assembly would reverse the trend in scrapping resident wardens and introduce policies and legislation to reintroduce them in sheltered accommodation. It would ensure care homes are managed to a sufficient standard, with properly trained and decently paid staff.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would tackle the current inadequate pensions our elderly receive. The actual pension as we know it today would be abolished and replaced with a non means tested and inflation linked Pensioners Income Scheme, based on the individual’s previous salary prior to retirement. Widows would receive half their spouses or partners income on top of their own whilst remaining single or not co-habiting. In addition to the Pensioners Income Scheme, the elderly would receive free heating, television licences, road tax and fares on all forms of public transport.

Skills banks would be created, where the retired can donate their services for the community. Likewise specialised free of charge training schemes would be increased, allowing the elderly to keep abreast of the latest technology.

Those convicted of crimes against the elderly and most vulnerable would face stiffer sentences.

POLLUTIONIn a sustainable society all forms of pollution cannot go unchecked. Ways have to be investigated of reducing pollution through research and development, as well as legislation. In a new, radical Mercia there would be progressive taxation on polluters and land use, whereby the heaviest polluters pay heavier rates of taxation. This taxation would be ring fenced with finances directed towards research and development as well as investment into green jobs and technology.

In addition to industrial pollution we also have to look at ‘social’ pollution in terms of car use and litter. With regards to car use, clearly there needs to be better and more efficient public transport to deter the use of the motor car. In addition to this alternative means of getting form one place to another, such as walking and cycling, need to be encouraged and made safer. Activities such as walking and cycling can be encouraged at an early age in schools with regular walking and cycling outings. In the case of classic vehicles, a progressive Mercia Assembly would not oppose ownership but support it based on preserving heritage transport. However to deter the extra pollution each vehicle omits, mileage would be restricted of the most pollutant vehicles.

The dumping of perfectly good food is also a form of pollution and there is a need to reduce food wastage. Households throw away an alarming percentage of bought food and the supermarkets throw away a considerable amount. The supermarkets rejection of perfectly good fruit and vegetables simply because of size and appearance needs to stop as this leads to unnecessary waste, some of which goes into landfill sites.

Litter can also be regarded as a pollutant, being both unsightly and harmful to wildlife and the environment. We can have no pride in our local environment, our country or our world if we do not tackle the issue of litter. In addition to education, a progressive Mercia Assembly would introduce a

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zero tolerance policy on litter; with offenders having to undertake long hours litter removal based labour, as well as fines as punishment.

POPULATIONMany speak of the world’s currently growing population as a major contributing feature for environmental catastrophe. Indeed, an increasing population does mean more houses, more roads and infrastructure, more cars, more energy requirements, more pollution, more consumption, more waste. This is especially the case under non-progressive political systems which fail to look at sufficiently investing in solutions to transport issues, pollution and waste as well as encouraging greater family and community cohesion.

However as experts predict, the present population explosion is about to end. Half the world’s women are having two children or fewer, which means within a generation the global population will be falling. In some places this will present problems such as an increasingly elderly and dependent generation, with too fewer people to care for them.

Global population increases at the present rate are at good thing, nevertheless people are required to carry out jobs and care for others. If we look to the future we can see the latter becoming a serious issue and one which can only be solved internationally through global co-operation.

There has to be far greater redistribution of wealth to allow all peoples to be delivered from poverty. A progressive Mercia Assembly would promote building a compassionate world where the elderly and sick are cared for and where there are financial resources to fund this where necessary. Promoting the caring family unit and compassionate, caring local communities instead of self interest will also assist in this. Education is vitally important, providing people with the knowledge of the world’s problems and a sense global co-operation.

In addition to redistribution of wealth we have to look at the redistribution of resources to provide global sustainable communities. This is why a progressive Mercia Assembly would favour greater economic co-operation, including the use of bartering, instead of unsustainable economic competition. The movement of labour could also be regarded as a resource. Obviously people will travel where there are better employment prospects and wages. Unfortunately this can leave some countries and regions with insufficient labour to meet essential needs. This is why we must act globally to prevent this from continuing by working against the destructive economic forces, supporting progressive political parties and the international Trade Union movement who aim to deliver jobs, decent wages and sustainable societies, and by bringing pressure on international bodies such as the United Nations.

PRISONSIn a new, radical Mercia prison would be used as a deterrent, a punishment and a centre of rehabilitating criminals. Punishments, including the use of hard labour, should fit the crime. Different rehabilitation techniques are required to return offenders to society so they can live a life

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away from crime.

In addition to this we have to look at the type of offenders in prison and debate whether harder forms of community based punishment and curfews would be more suitable for some less violent offenders. All those with drug or alcohol addictions need to be sent to specialist units to undergo treatment to eradicate their dependency as part of their sentence. In a new, radical Mercia more prisons and detention centres would be built if necessary.

Our prisons should send out the message that crime does not pay, and when offenders leave they are equipped with the skills to participate in a life that is crime free. This is why prisoners must be educated to a reasonable standard in current and political affairs and permitted to vote in elections.

PROSTITUTIONIn a new, radical Mercia there would be regulated legalisation of prostitution. All those engaged in the sex trade would have to have to be licensed, have regular medical checkups and operate from registered premises passed by local authorities.

RACISM & DISCRIMINATIONRacism and other forms of discrimination, wherever it is carried out and by whom, should have no place in a country or region built on progressive principles. Therefore a progressive Mercia Assembly would ensure better education to tackle the lack of understanding which ultimately leads to discrimination. An egalitarian society needs to be created, one where ALL PEOPLE are valued.

If we are to win the battle against racism and discrimination, we must also confront issues which many have ignored for years, creating a void the far right has filled with distortions. Ignoring issues simply makes the problem worse.

RELIGIONAlthough a new, radical Mercia would be a secular society with separation of church and state, it would also be one which allows freedom of faith (providing human and animal welfare conditions are adhered to) and respect for peoples religions. A progressive Mercia Assembly would work with and alongside faith groups in helping to resolve many of the problems we face in society and throughout the world. Religious extremism of any form however would not be tolerated.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would support the continued teaching of Religious Education in Mercia schools, enabling our young people to gain an understanding of different faiths and cultural backgrounds. A progressive Mercia Assembly would oppose banning religious festivals and celebrations such as Nativity plays because they are deemed by a tiny minority as being ‘offensive’.

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RETIREMENT AGEYou do not have to be a genius to realise people in different types of employment might have to retire at different ages. For example, someone undertaking heavy physical labour may have to retire at 55, whilst an office worker in a stress free environment might be able to continue until they are 75 or much older. Likewise people in stress related jobs might find themselves completely burnt out many years before the current retirement age.

Successive governments have failed to recognise this implication, and endorse a one size fits all rule to retirement. The Citizens Income Scheme and Pension Income Scheme, and the support these shall bring, plus additional part time work, shall be a great benefit to people that wish to work on, but cannot manage full time employment.

Therefore a progressive Mercia Assembly would oppose plans for the continuous increasing of the retirement age, and would recognise this needs to be related to both health and profession. A healthy economy, fair redistribution of wealth and progressive taxation shall help fund this.

ROAD SAFETY A progressive Mercia Assembly would take the safety of people whether resident or visiting the region very seriously. Our roads are very dangerous places and countless lives are lost every year. In order to reduce deaths on our roads a progressive Mercia Assembly would work closely with groups such as RoSPA and RoadPeace, taking their advice and direction.

A new, radical Mercia would oppose attempts to raise the national speed limit on motorways. At the same time it would support moves to reduce speed limits in town centres and residential areas to a maximum of 20mph.

Concern needs to be shown about the number of deaths and incidents involving young and elderly drivers. Therefore, in conjunction with the Police and road safety groups a progressive Mercia Assembly would look at raising the age you can obtain a provisional licence, and an upper age where you have to surrender your licence or take a re-test.

Further in an attempt to reduce incidents amongst young road users, a progressive Mercia Assembly would introduce laws to ensure provisional drivers must accrue at least 100 hours of lessons before being able to take their driving test and display green Pass Plates on any vehicle they drive for a period of one year or 2,000 miles whichever comes first.

The driving test should include an element of motorway driving as well as rural lanes.

Two wheeled users are more at risk than others, with the conditions of our roads being a contributing factor. A progressive Mercia Assembly would introduce a massive public works scheme to repair potholes and unsafe road surfaces. This would include non-slip dressings applied to all manhole covers and drains.

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Anyone found under the influence of alcohol or drugs whilst driving would be banned for a minimum of two years. Anyone found under the influence of alcohol or drugs while driving who is the cause of an accident would be banned for life.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would look at ways of ensuring overseas drivers of HGV’s are competent with driving on our road system. If not found to be competent, their loads would be transferred to drivers based in this country.

SOCIETYA new, radical Mercia would be a more egalitarian, localised society. At present we live in a society whereby success often depends on what side of the tracks you are from, what school you attended, who you know or who your family knows. Very often those with so much potential are ignored, especially those from less well off backgrounds. If people are not in the right place at the right time or belong to the right club, the window of opportunity can be firmly closed. In a new, radical Mercia that window of opportunity would be open for life, increasing education, training and career prospects for all and not just for the chosen few.

We also have to look at the pay differentials between different groups of employees, and calculate how much people earn, and how much just falls into their laps because of their position. This has come to light with the banking crisis and how much the fat cat directors received.

Education and workplace reform is necessary if we are to create an egalitarian society. Through this the end result shall be a society rid of selfish individualism and replaced with one where social ethos is based upon solidarity, co-operation, community and mutual help.

A new, radical Mercia would see the ‘localisation of society’, moving towards a region where people work more locally, streets and communities are maintained by people that actually live in the area and streets are Policed by officers living in the area. Local shops would be supported by fairer distribution of wealth (from the multinational and major chains to the corner shops) levelling the playing field between the large and the small retailer.

Through this people shall take more pride in their communities, places of work, schools etc. Crime shall be much lower, and a less stressful lifestyle created.

SOVEREIGNTY & IDENTITYThe parties of Westminster have surrendered much of Britain’s sovereignty. The EU now makes many of the laws people have to abide by. Large global institutions have detrimental effects on our economy and can insist upon our armed forces taking part in foreign campaigns.

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Some co-operation and international laws are actually a good thing, especially if we consider human, animal and environmental welfare. However others have no benefit whatsoever to ordinary people.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would work towards repatriating sovereignty from overseas institutions and remove power from bureaucrats and boardrooms back to the people and local communities, whilst respecting laws and international agreements which support social, environmental and economic justice and animal welfare.

SPORTIn the sporting world it is a classic case of the haves and have not’s. Major sponsorship deals and the selling of television rights has only benefitted the largest of teams and most popular sports, with little if nothing reaching the lower echelons of the sporting ladder and grass roots development.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would favour greater distribution of wealth in sport allowing smaller teams, less popular sports and better development at grass roots level. In a new, radical Mercia sport would be for everyone, and by introducing legislation to bring about the redistribution of wealth in sport, increased numbers of people would have more access to an increasing number of sports. This would have a positive effect in health and communities.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would promote greater emphasis on County games across the whole of Britain, and a Regional Games for the regions.

TAXATIONA progressive Mercia Assembly would have the powers to decide its own taxes and spend taxes raised accordingly in Mercia. Pre-negotiated sums would be sent to Westminster to assist in funding essential national services.

In a new, radical Mercia those who can afford to contribute most would do so through a progressive taxation system. This would include a 2% wealth tax on the assets of the richest sector of society. This would help fund many of the progressive policies for Mercia contained within this document. The way National Insurance functions today is almost like a secondary income tax. Therefore there is no reason why it cannot be incorporated with income tax.

Additional taxation would also be introduced on goods and products that do not adhere to strict environmental, human and animal welfare conditions and businesses which cause the highest levels of pollution. Tax loopholes currently exploited by companies would be closed.

A land tax, whereby a higher revenue is paid for having a damaging impact on the environment would be introduced.

In a new, radical Mercia Corporation Tax would be looked at with a view to encouraging the formation of democratic workers co-operatives and low pollution and pollution free industries.

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TOURISMMercia is a diverse and beautiful region as well as being culturally and historically rich. In addition to the already existing county and local tourist boards, a progressive Mercia Assembly would establish a Mercia Tourist Board. This would help in establishing knowledge of Mercia internationally and help increase revenue across the region.

TRADE UNIONS & WORKERS RIGHTSIn a new, radical Mercia, Trade and Industrial Unionism would play a vital role in the workplace, campaigning for fair pay, equality and better conditions for the workforce. For these reasons a progressive Mercia Assembly would review all anti-union laws introduced by the Tories and endorsed by New Labour. At the same time it would seek to tackle career Trade Unionists, living wealthy and luxurious lifestyles at the expense of ordinary workers and would therefore support moves at reducing the differential between Trade Union bosses and the members they represent. A progressive Mercia Assembly would work for wider Trade and Industrial Union membership, with membership extended to those serving in the Police and Armed Forces.

TRANSPORTAn integrated transport system is something that has often been talked about but never delivered. However the environmental considerations alone merit that it is essential to deliver such a system, incorporating road, rail, water and air. New rail and tram links need to be created and bus services able to reach rural communities. Where necessary ‘Post Busses’ could be introduced, operated by the Royal Mail, to help serve more rural communities.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would work with cycling organisations and invest in safe cycleways across the region, adjacent at regular points with local public transport stations. This would help reduce the reliance upon cars as a means of transport. The use of community ‘Car Pools’ would be encouraged.

A progressive Mercia Assembly would favour massive investment in the rail system, improving local services, before vanity big business initiated projects such as HS2. Likewise it would oppose airport expansion and look at other ways of improving transport links, but oppose the closure of local airports which serve a purpose but may not be economically viable under the present economic system.

TRAVELLERSIn a new, radical Mercia it would be respected that different people have different lifestyles, and Travellers are a section of society with a Romany type lifestyle very different to others. A progressive Mercia Assembly would recognise their right to choose this lifestyle and would co-operate with the

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traveller community in the provision of sites.

Nevertheless in a number of cases members of the Traveller community seem to be beyond the law, flouting motoring, fly-tipping, littering and even animal welfare regulations. This has a detrimental effect on local communities, the environment and wildlife. In a new, radical Mercia no section of any community should be beyond the law.

In a new, radical Mercia members of the Traveller community which wish to establish horticultural co-operatives or sole trader ventures or new-age therapy/holistic communities.

UNEMPLOYMENTUnemployment is a process of the economic system with the overwhelming majority of unemployed people being victims of this system.

Through a planned economy there is no reason why full employment cannot be created. In a new, radical Mercia, through legislation large businesses would be permitted to sit on vast fortunes and directors allowing themselves vast salaries, as such funds would be used to create employment.

In a new, radical Mercia there would be investment in public works. A progressive Mercia Assembly would push for national grid of the water system across Britain, something which is long overdue, yet could be created. Investing in ‘Green’ jobs is another area where employment can be created.

UNITED NATIONSCurrently the United Nations consist of ‘selected’ representatives of a government. A progressive Mercia Assembly would suggest such an important global body should be representative of the people. This would reform the UN allowing representatives that are democratically elected by the people of each country.

WAGES & INCOMEIn a new, radical Mercia, a Citizens Income Scheme would make payments to all bone fide residents to cover the basic necessities. This would allow greater flexibility in the labour market, with people switching to part time employment, volunteering more to work within the community or spend more time with the family. It would be a benefit to the whole of society. People would retain these payments even if they were in employment, and would therefore benefit further in work.

In addition to this a new radical, Mercia would adopt a Living Wage following the guidelines of the Living Wage Foundation. Adjustment to the taxation system and business rates would address price hikes which would cause increased inflation and financial hardship to small business that may struggle to pay a living wage.

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A progressive Mercia Assembly would ensure the highest income would be no more than ten times the Living Wage.

WEALTHA new, radical Mercia would not deter people from their aspirations to better themselves or succeed. This includes in the financial sense, and therefore it would not be anti-wealth and success. What a progressive Mercia Assembly would do however differentiate between is ‘success’ and ‘greed’. A new, radical Mercia would be a place of mutual benefit and respect and a society where all would have the opportunity of success.

WE THE PEOPLE – OUR REGIONMercia is a proud, historical region. The counties of Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire are sometimes included in Wessex (as determined by the Wessex Regionalists/ Society), but a progressive Mercia Assembly would agree with the idea that subject to addition or subtraction according to popular wish, we would allow the people to decide which Region they wish to be included in.

The progressive vision of Mercia is of self autonomous region within the United Kingdom or England. However it is also one that sees Mercia prepared for any breakup of the UK or countries within the present UK. Therefore if the aims of creating a new, radical Mercia are to be met, in certain circumstances working towards self determination should not be ruled out.

A new, radical Mercia would have a voice not only heard within the region, but one that would speak out with its progressive vision nationally and internationally.

YOUNG PEOPLE Young people have been used by the political elite for a very long time. We need to invest in our young people and allow them to help shape a sustainable, egalitarian society. This means investing in our young people to provide a society that is fit for them to live in, eventually grow old in and eventually hand over to the next generation. We need to invest in nurseries, schools, employment and housing as well as adequate leisure and sporting facilities.

Mercia should lead the way in listening to the concerns, hopes and aspirations of the young, including the formation of a democratically elected Mercia Youth Assembly to bring issues before the actual Mercia Assembly. The voting age needs lowering to 16.

Socially, a progressive Mercia Assembly would reform of the age of consent laws, which are clearly not working, and look instead to introduce legislation allowing individuals to enter into the sexual relations they choose, provided this does not conflict with the rights of others. At the same time it must ensure the safety of young people from sexual predators and introduce legislation to protect children from sexual abuse.

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YOUTH ORGANISATIONSTraditional youth organisations such as the Scouts and the Guides have provided enjoyment for millions over the years. They have been joined in more recent times by thousands of sports and local youth clubs. Yet funding and support for youth organisations has been very poor.

The future of youth organisations is very important. Each one provides activity, develops teamwork and discipline and in many cases contributes towards local communities. Therefore in a new, radical Mercia such organisations need to be provided with additional funding to promote and fund their activities.

A New, Radical Mercia, Is Possible – If We Fight For It!

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About Us

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Mercia Rising believes in the benefits regional devolution and what a Mercia Assembly can bring.

But we stand for more than just a Mercia Assembly.

Mercia Rising is a collective of Mercia Regionalists, we believe in bringing power back to the people and promoting Mercian heritage, culture and Identity.

We want a Green Mercia, one built on real ecology, which puts the interest of the planet and people together, creating a world which is good for all of us.

Inspired by some great thinkers, we count the levellers and the chartist movement as well as people such as Keir Hardie, William Morris, R.H Tawney, Richard Hunt, Carlo Roselli, Hilaire Belloc and G.D.H Cole as some of those who have inspired us to fight for a New Mercia.

Looking forward we understand the path is long and hard, but we ask you to Join Us in building a People’s Mercia.

Formed in 2015, we have a vision, but we need your help to achieve it.

If you agree with what we have had to say, join us and get involved, simply log onto www.mercia.tk

Platform for a New, Radical Mercia is an adaptation of a publication produced by Wessex Regionalists with authorisation.

For more details please contact- citizen@groupmail.com