The Sword of Damocles (Gameplay Thread) (Early 1930)

[leonardothered]

INTERNATIONAL:

-The United States is sending representatives to the Ottoman Empire in preparation for a visit from the president himself to consult with the great Sultan and the government there to begin a more active dialogue with the great nation. Envoys are also being sent to Mexico and Brazil to re-establish ties with the new administration of the US.

-Cuba is formally recognized as an independent nation and tariffs are brought down from previous rates as a sign of good will. All trade sanctions end and the president is expected to make a stop there to negotiate further upon his return from the Ottoman Empire.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

The Sublime Porte will be extraordinairly pleased to receive His Excellency, the President of the United States.

[Spamage]

The German Empire-Deutches Reich

1929

-We mourn the passing of Chancellor Von Bulow and shall entomb him with all the proper glory a man of his stature deserves. Arrange a state funeral in Berlin with reminders of his accomplishments and the greatness of the Reich.

-We will not openly commit troops to the German settlers on the Volga, though we will issue a formal declaration reaffirming our beliefs recognizing their sovereignity and promising to intervene should their rights be violated. Furthermore, it pleases the government to announce the open sending of food and military aid to the settlers in the region in the form of weapons.

-We shall create the position of Viceroy of Africa, who shall oversee day-to-day governance of all African possesions. His authority shall only be superceded by that of the Chancellor and the Kaiser. We shall also encourage further German emigration to the colonies through adverstisements as well as incentives. Offer settlers willing to move free land and a modest subsidy to ease their transition into their new lives.

-We shall also work on establishing firm relations with the non-ethnic Germans in Africa. A department will be established to help him govern the region with offices in Madagascar, Tanzania, Cameroon, and Namibia. Also, Establish a public education system in the colonies to teach German language, culture, and values to citizens regardless of race. Found new universities in Antananarivo (Madagascar), Yaoundé (Cameroon), and Windhoek (Namibia). These locations shall conduct research on local wildlife, tropical diseases, and provide a grounding in education for subjects of the Kaiser abroad.

-In order to bolster the economy of our colonies begin the construction of roads, railroads, military bases, as well places of residence. Look to expand the electrical grid, create airbases, improve communication, fix clean water supply, and gain a better understanding of the region. Hopefully improving the day-to-day operations will endear us further with residents.

-In order to offset Chinese trade loses, continue to focus on our colonial empire. Also reach out to other nations (the Netherlands, Korea, and Latin America) in order to create new, mutually beneficial trade agreements. It should be our priority to get finished German products abroad in the many markets this new era gives us access to.

[Dereich]

His Majesty Emperor Takahito is disquieted by the continued conflict between His people's friend, Generalissimo Chaing Kai-Shek and His brother-Emperor, Guangxu. While the Red Menace and foreign invaders threaten all the peoples of Asia, it is disturbing to see the great leaders of ancient China more focused on fighting each other. His Majesty call for a ceasefire to be declared and maintained between these good peoples.

His Majesty invites representatives of both Emperor Guangxu and Generalissimo Kai-Shek to join Him at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo in conference to resolve their differences like the noble gentlemen that His Majesty knows that they are. His Majesty Himself would act as host for this important conference, with his knowledgeable and diplomatic minister Tsuyoshi acting as moderator for technical discussions. 

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

The Ottoman Empire applauds the initiative undertook by the Empire of Japan. We have full confidence the government of Generalissimo Chaing Kai-Shek, which is the legitimate government of China, will be able to sort out domestic discords.

[NeverAgain]

The Chinese People warmly accept the Japanese offer, and order an immediate cease-fire against troops employed by the Emperor.

[Dereich]

The Empire of Japan is willing to sign this NEW and COMPLETELY SECRET agreement with the Chinese Government. What a glorious day for Asia and the Chinese people. We urge the other Great Powers to join us in recognizing the sovereign rights of the people of the Empire of China.

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X Inukai Tsuyoshi, Chief Minister to the Emperor of Japan.

[NeverAgain]

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X NeverAgain

[Lumine]

Spain Reunites:

Following the fall of the Besteiro Government in Spain and the settling on an uneasy truce across the frontlines by Alfonsists and Carlists, genuine fears of another civil war were on the horizon. Two Kings claimed the right to seat on the Spanish throne, the Alfonsists at a major disadvantage due to their smaller army and the lack of a powerful nation supporting them as France did with the Carlist cause. And yet, thanks to the mediation of President Francois de la Rocque and Foreign Minister Pierre Laval members of both causes joined in Paris for a series of talks over the last weeks.

Despite a lot of initial distrust and eventual dissatisfaction with the outcome, Pierre Laval, Emilio Mola and Jose Sanjurjo have brokered and signed the Treaty of Versailles, putting an end to the Spanish Civil War (1927-1929). Due to the superior position of the Carlists and the threat of a military disaster young King Alfonso XIV and old king Jaime III reached a common agreement, placing the elderly Jaime as the King of a united Spain with young Alfonso as his heir. If successful, this compromise would result in the unity of the different branches of the Borbon family, ending the 100 year strife for the Spanish throne and making Prince Alfonso of Borbon both the Spanish King and the Legitimist claimant to the French throne.

Furthermore, in account for having "suspended" his claim to the throne, the Alfonsists have managed to install now Field Marshal Jose Sanjurjo as the next Prime Minister of Spain, compensating the temporary loss of the crown. Furthermore, the Kingdom of Portugal also acted as a successful mediator, and it is expected the oldest daughter of King Luis Filipe of Portugal might marry young Prince Alfonso. Both radical Alfonsists and radical Carlists denounce the pact as unsuitable, yet most of Spain seems to receive the news with optimism as war has (hopefully) been averted.

King Jaime III, the first King of the Carlist cause, will be crowned in Madrid on January 1930.

[Lumine]

Russian Civil War: September 1929

Overall:

As the warlords in the Far-East mobilize against the Chinese Empire in a show of their military skill and the Provisional Government continues to the road to consolidation, the center stage fully belongs to Kolchak and Yudenich now, both locked in a fierce struggle for survival. July of 1929 was to bring a glimmer of hope to the battered Kazakh forces as war material and supplies poured into the country thanks to a few merciful powers, allowing a counteroffensive to slow down Kolchak's forces in hope for a turning point. Alas, the battles that dragged into August were only battles of attrition that cut down some of the best fighting forces of General Yudenich, as the Siberian divisions were armed with some of the most advanced weaponry in the region. With September kicking in and winter approaching the Siberians continue their march into the enemy lands, hoping to deliver a crippling blow before the snows make fighting all but impossible.

War Info:

Provisional Government of Russia:

-Russian Army: 66 divisions (47 inf, 10 cav, 9 mil)
-Russian Navy: 1 BB, 3 CR, 4 DD
-Russian Airforce: 8 Fighter Wings, 2 Bombing Wings, 2 Transport Wings.

[Lumine]

Chinese Civil War: September 1929

Overall:

As many await the result of the ongoing negotiations in Istanbul (which many believe can be a turning point for better or worse for Field Marshal Chiang), the situation in China continues to develop rapidly with the Kuomintang scoring two major successes and the Communists countering with a triumph of their own. While the eastern front of the largest Communist soviets has stabilized for the time being, the Kuomintang forces and the Japanese volunteers continue their march from Guangdong while bleeding several Communist units. Likewise, a planned offensive in the North against the Shaanxi Soviet has resulted in an outstanding success for Chiang thanks to the swift moves of General Yan Xishan, a popular officer in the area.

On the other hand, operations in the west and around the coastlines have failed due to a lack of organization among the Kuomintang forces (with officers blaming the effects of opium in the troops, a claim not fully proven). The resulting gap has led the Communist divisions into a breakout towards the sea for the second time, which is expected to significantly complicate communications near the sea. And while a ceasefire between the Kuomintang and the Emperor has lessened the violence in Manchuria, the joint attacks of the Mongolians and the Transbaikal Warlords have penetrated deep into the northern part of the Empire, the forces currently there almost powerless to stop it.

War Info:

Kuomintang:

-Chinese Army: 46 divisions (31 inf, 8 cav, 7 militia)
-Chinese Navy: 2 BB, 3 CR, 8 DD, 4 SUB
-Chinese Airforce: 4 Fighter Wings, 3 Bombing Wings, 4 Transport Wings.
-Volunteer Force: 6 divisions (5 inf, 1 mar)

Communist China:

-Communist Army: 29 divisions (11 inf, 2 cav, 17 militia)
-Communist Navy: No navy.
-Communist Airforce: 3 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings.

Imperial China:

-Imperial Army: 8 divisions (6 inf, 1 cav, 1 militia)
-Imperial Navy: 1 CR, 1 DD.
-Imperial Airforce: 1 Fighter Wings, 1 Bombing Wings.

[windjammer]

It appears that China is facing a lot of difficulties with the communists. Communism being is the worst enemy of France, they will have all of our sympathy and all of our help. Communism will not take ravage an another country anymore! That's why the French republic and China agree on:

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xPresident Laroque

[windjammer]

To the French people
My fellow compatriots,
For so many decades corrupt politicians kept power by using political manoeuvers and never directly faced responsibility to you, the good people of France. I am not a corrupt politician, that's why I will run for reelection for president(OCC: the fusioned office), where this is you who will directly decide.
As the leader of France, I led our country to victory. The hostile communist regime at our borders has been defeated and a civil war has been avoided, both by France diplomatically and militarly. I have high hopes as well that a peace will be signed in the Balkans soon with again the clear intervention from France.
France under my leadership has regained his place as the most important superpower in Europe, our enemies one by one will continue to be defeated and my duty will be to  lead our great nation to glory.


-------
How the elections will be held:
- free elections obviously (the parties of the opposition will be able to present a candidate)
- the people of France will vote twice at the same time: one vote for the presidential election (the winner will be the one who gets the most votes, no run off) and one for the legislative election (by district, same system no run off)
- Women will have the right to vote for the first ever.

It will be held, welll between the end of this midturn and before the next turn (so we will have the results when the next turn starts).

[Lumine]

1929 French General Election:

The Croix de Feu, triumphant

Cross of Fire: 396 seats
Radicals: 97 seats
Socialist Party: 72 seats
Workers Party: 13 seats
Others: 22 seats

Overall:

Seven years had gone by since the 1922 General Election that had cemented the rise to power of the Cross of Fire, and France had substantially changed as a country. Indeed, it had rapidly rearmed itself as its economy recovered from the shock following short-term policies, and its international standing was rapidly cemented not only by the successful intervention in the Spanish Civil War (which proved that the French Army was a force to be reckoned with) but by able intervention in the Balkans and a deeply pro-catholic posture, putting the Vatican in a close relationship with the French state.

Time went and the originally scheduled elections for president and parliament failed to be held, sparking fears through the center and the left that de la Rocque's dictatorship was all but a certainty. It was therefore a shock when the French President announced that elections would indeed be held, allowing the opposition to field candidates of their own, setting a new electoral system and going as far as to grant women the right to vote, a measure warmly received by most parties. Shocked by the sudden announcement the opposition parties quickly split as many minor left forces refused to take part in the election, and plans for a "Popular Front" to oppose the Cross of Fire never took off the ground due to the little time available.

The Government, therefore, saw most of the right and the old conservative parties align firmly behind the movement, hoping to ride a wave of support from international success, appealing to the female vote and, above all, a strong support for Catholicism. Opposed to de la Rocque would be Leon Blum's Socialist Party, Edouard Herriot's Radicals, and the far-left Workers Party of Pierre Semard. The campaign started to de la Rocque's advantage, with Pope Alexander IX making a speech from St. Peter's Square openly endorsing the President and his movement and the machinery of government allowing for the Cross of Fire to field as much resources and volunteers as needed.

And yet it was a hard fought campaign. Even if the Radicals, Socialists and the Far-Left could not agree on a common platform and candidate, they still sought to focus most of their fire on the current government and warned against "a full fledged fall into dictatorship" should President de la Rocque be reelected and granted full power over Parliament. Alas, the government's popularity was significant and its electoral strategy adept, with defectors from the left and center camps such as Foreign Minister Laval undercutting the appeal of the opposition. In the end, aided by the electoral system the President prevailed on the Presidential election with 47% of the vote. The Cross of Fire was less successful in the parliamentary elections as it only scored 42%, but the make up of the new electoral system gave it a safe and clear majority.

While some believe President de la Rocque may have made a long-term mistake by giving the opposition a new chance at survival, the fact is that the French public has endorsed his agenda, giving him a good number of years with safe control of the Presidency and Parliament to continue reshaping France.

[Lumine]

End of Late 1929:

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

In the News:

Chiang Kai Shek assassinated, Kuomintang disintegrating:

With a ceasefire arranged with the Emperor and a series of reasonable victories against the Communist Party, the Kuomintang regime of Chiang Kai Shek seemed to be on the recovery in many ways, despite the hardships of civil war. Indeed, the early announcement that Hong Kong was to be delivered back to China was welcomed by a wave of support that turned into a anger the very same moment it was known that Chiang had accepted the opium trade to be opened through China.

With major protests taking place in the cities, Chiang was going via road to Nanjing in order to attend a special meeting of the party when a group of his bodyguards (who had lost several family members to opium addiction) shot him dead on his vehicle. The announcement threw the Kuomintang into chaos, giving reason to the Muslim Generals in the West, a clique of officers in Yunnan and the popular Yan Yishan in Shaanxi to rise and declare governments of their own. A battered government in Nanjing elected Deputy Prime Minister Wang Jingwei to replace Chiang, and it remains to be seen whether the party can recover from this chaos.

Winston Churchill deposed in parliamentary revolt, successor to be elected by Conservatives:

Having already defied his party over the Ireland issue and threading on low popularity Prime Minister Churchill may have scored a few victories over his deal with China, but those were buried under the opening of the opium trade (which was followed by passionate protests by the Labour Party) and more importantly, the Hong Kong handover, which caused badly divisions on the battered Liberal Party and, worse, a parliamentary coup in the Conservative Party. As more than a dozen Tory MP's defected to the National Party and the Ulster Party (which is to disappear by the next GE, as Northern Ireland goes to the Dominion of Ireland), the Tory backbench felt it was now or never.

Facing a vote of no-confidence that he lost badly, Prime Minister Churchill was forced to step down from his office. Lord Curzon has taken over as Acting Prime Minister, and King Edward has asked the Conservative grandees to select a new Prime Minister that can command a majority in the House. In the aftermath of this shocking development the biggest winner has been Oswald Mosley's Labour Party (and the National Party as well), with many wondering whether the deal reached in Istanbul will even be ratified at all.

Coup in Rome launched, Pope Alexander IX seizes power:

The aftermath of the sinking of the Giolitti had already placed a lot of strain between the Emperor and Pope Alexander, as the last one pressed onto his denunciation of the Ottoman Empire. That relationship broke the moment it was revealed to the Pope (and then leaked to the Italian military) that Emperor Victor Emmanuel III had indeed ordered the sabotage of the Italian Navy, hoping to gain an excuse to launch an invasion of Greece. This, coupled with other "deeply disturbing" revelations was too much.

It is believed an attempt to take hold of the Emperor and Crown Prince Umberto to stage a bloodless coup was botched, leading to the arrest of the first but the escape of Umberto to Tripoli. In the aftermath of this the Papal Army of Volunteers stationed outside Rome moved into the capital to protect the Pope, with Alexander seizing government as several military units and catholic supporters rose for him across the mainland. Alas, Umberto remains in control of the colonies and has refused the attempt to dethrone his father, making a civil war in Italy very possible.

Morocco on the rise?

Sultan Hassan II of Morocco, an independentist figure, has scored its first success by arranging negotiations with the Ottoman Empire, reaching an understanding the restores the sovereignty of the coastal zones of Morocco held by the Empire in exchange for a certain number of concessions and further cooperation. Hassan, enjoying significant popular support and having regained sea access is expected to pressure both Germany and Italy to hand over their holdings in Morocco.

Romania refuses peace, Balkan War goes on:

While the Ottoman Empire and the Athens Pact concluded peace successfully after a bloody conflict across the Balkans, the Kingdom of Romania expressed its heavy distaste for the deal reached, calling it a "treason" on behalf of the Ottomans. The Romanian Prime Minister decided to continue the war, which has led to the Magyar Republic to launch an invasion of Romania as the Romanians fight across Bulgaria to reach Sofia. This places Germany in an awkward stance over its alliance with Romania, will this escalate even further?

Tension rises in the Caucasus:

As the Provisional Government of Russia continues to consolidate its holdings, a new foe has stepped in to challenge the progress made by Kerensky and Tsar Alexei II. General Pytor Krasnov, leader of the Krasnodar Government (unofficially known as a Cossack State) has denounced the "naked aggression of the St. Petersburg cabal", and closed over the land routes in the Caucasus and the sea routes in the Caspian Sea to the Provisional Government, closing their sources of oil from the South and placing the Russian economy in jeopardy. This challenge can prove a crippling blow to the economy of the Provisional Government if left unchecked...

[Lumine]

Wars, Economy and Popularity:

Ongoing Wars:

Russian Civil War:
(Various Russian states)
Kolchak and Yudenich in war, Provisional Government on the rise.

Chinese Civil War:
(Chinese Empire v. Kuomintang v. Chinese Communist Party v. Warlords)
Kuomintang China desintegrating.

Second Balkan War:
(Athens Pact v. Romania)
Ongoing battles in Romania and Bulgaria.

Popularity Ratings:

President Francois de la Rocque: High
Chancellor Franz von Papen: Medium
Prime Minister Alexander Kerensky: Medium
Prime Minister Inukai Tsuyoshi: Medium
Minister of War Enver Pasha: Medium
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt: Low

Economic Ratings:

German Empire: Strong
Japanese Empire: Strong
Ottoman Empire: Strong
Republic of France: Moderate
Provisional Government of Russia: Weak
United States of America: Weak

Current Armies:

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[Lumine]

Turn Seven: Early 1930

Stanley Baldwin, Britain's new Prime Minister

USA:

-While some have attacked you for recognizing Cuba, the end of the blocklade and a potential war is not badly received, particularly as Hearst and McAdoo are paraded back to New York City to crowds of their enemies. What will you do with Hearst and McAdoo, and how do you plan to handle the Guantanamo talks?

-Sadly, your popularity has taken a hit lately as Congress and many in the public perceive you as a do nothing president on domestic aspects, particularly as the economy continues to slide into more and more negative numbers. Will you finally take action on the economic front?

-Looking at the recent downfall of the Churchill government over Hong Kong, some of the most anglophobic elements of the military are suggesting the United States should consider intervention in the Kingdom of Hawaii, a British puppet over the past couple of decades. What will you say to them?

United Kingdom:

Evening, Prime Minister. After talks were held with the King, the Cabinet and the Conservative barons you have been selected as PM despite not serving in the Churchill cabinet. It will be a tough job to lead the Government less than two years before a General Election has to be held, good luck!

1.- The first complicated issue to solve is that of China. The recent deal in Istanbul costed Churchill his job and Chiang his life, leading to much strife. Will you attempt to ratify the treaty or renegotiate the terms with Prime Minister Wang, or will you take another course of action with the Kuomintang?

2.- The Indian and Irish Viceroys bring bad news. Not only in Ireland are the hardcore republicans and the ulstermen back to fighting in the streets, but in India the Indian National Congress has redoubled its demands for Home Rule and begun to organize mass demonstrations against the local government. You must be extremely careful on this front.

3.- One of the pressing issues left by Churchill is that of the economic road to follow, cabinet divided over interventionism or an austerity approach. What road will you take, and do you plan to appoint a new Chancellor of the Exchequer?

Japan:

1.- Bad news from Nanjing, Prime Minister. Wang Jingwei's hand has been forced by the Kuomintang deputies, who against his wish have voted to request the withdrawal of the Japanese Expeditionary forces from China. What will you do?

2.- A series of mutinies have taken place in Indochina, with some Vietnamese police units deserting to a new rebel movement that desires independence. Whereas foreign backing has not been confirmed, they grow in strength each day. The Viceroy asks for instructions as to how to approach this matter.

[Lumine]

Papal Italy:

Your Holiness, Rome is yours. The Papal Army and a large part of the Italian Army stands with you on these dark times, as the Emperor remains under house arrest. Best of luck on your efforts to succeed.

1.- Prince Umberto has fled to Tripoli and joined with the respected war hero General Messe, still commanding the support of most of the fleet, the colonies and even a large part of the mainland. Will you go to war against Umberto and his forces? Call a truce and broker a compromise? Italy stands on the balance now, your decision will be crucial.

France:

1.- Ongoing military spending and mobilization has brought very useful results for the French military, but economists at the ministry of Finance warn this approach cannot be maintained long term. They believe that the army needs to be demobilized to pre-Spanish Civil War levels, and war spending at least decreased.

2.- The situation in Italy causes great confusion for the Foreign Ministry, as questions arise on whether to support Prince Umberto, Pope Alexander, broker a truce or even take more direct action on the matter. How will you act?

3.- The eleciton has been won and the Cross of Fire stands strong and in a majority in the legislative. What will be your programme on Parliament for the upcoming year?

Siberia:

Greetings, Admiral Kolchak. The Council of Ministers on Irkutsk raises the following issues to be decided on:

1.- The war against General Yudenich has gone well so far, particularly thanks to the miitary aid from a certain friendly power. Alas, heavier resistance is expected from now on as the Siberian divisions penetrate deeper into Kazakh territory. How will the war be fought?

2.- With Baron von Ungern-Sternberg and General Semyonov invading Manchuria and the Chinese Empire complicated questions arise on the matters of the east. What will Siberia's policy be regarding the Mongolian/Trans-Ural warlords?

[Lumine]

Russia:

1.- A crisis arises from the South as the cossacks under Krasnov have cut off the Caspian Sea and the land routes to the Caucasus, therefore placing enormous strain on your oil supply. Indeed, economists warn that your army and your economy might suffer a massive blow if this continues beyond a few months. How will you handle Krasnov?

2.- The lack of movement or reform inside the Government worries Wrangel and Milyukin alike, as both believe the current situation remains too ambiguous. The Tsar is already beginning to speak up on matters regarding the Duma, at times favoring both leading men. How exactly is the Provisional Government to carry on politically?

Germany:

1.- So far the new reforms in Africa begin slowly, but with encouraging signs. The most pressing matter now is to appoint a Viceroy of Africa, with the understanding that such a Viceroy would have large power. Von Schleicher is already insinuating he'd like the position, and so are a few Hohenzollern Princes...

2.- Chaos strikes in Italy and places Germany in a complicated situation, particularly given your status as a catholic Chancellor. Zentrum itself seems split on the matter, although many call to support Pope Alexander on this crisis.

3.- With the Ottomans leaving the Balkan War Romania stands alone against the Athens Pact and the Magyars, and they may not be able to win a long war. Furthermore, German troops remain in Romanian soil, placing both sides in an awkward situation. What will you do regarding the war on Romania?

Ottoman Empire:

1.- A large part of the army has been demobilized without reaching pre-war levels yet, and the potential for an expeditionary corps to China is there. Despite the chaos in the Kuomintang, will you send troops to China? And, will you decrease the army to pre-war levels?

2.- Disaster strikes as the Salmas Earthquake takes place, killing thousands in the frontier with Iran. How should the Council of Ministers react to this?

3.- It's been fifteen years sine the Young Turks seized power, and in the process you've held the Ministry of War, the title of Vice-Commander of the army and even married into the House of Osman. Yet as time passes more and more people are aware of your role in government, and you remain popular after the recent years and the economic surge. Do you envision any change in your current positions and role?

[Lumine]

Crisis in Spain?

Shortly after the coronation of King Jaime III of Spain and the oaths of Alfonso of Borbon as Crown Prince and Jose Sanjurjo as Prime Minister, a revelation the newspapers has shocked the nation and possibly Europe too. An inquiry on the use of foreign weaponry on the Spanish Civil War ordered by an European power has seen its partial results leak to the local press. The revelations indicate that the German government repeatedly armed the government of Julian Besteiro with advanced weapons and supplies, used to fight the Carlists, the Alfonsists, and the Franco-Italian forces. How will the power of Europe react to this news?

[GoTfan]

Should the United States make any attempt to compromise the territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Hawaii, the United Kingdom will use all necessary means to maintain the territory of the Kingdom of Hawaii.

X Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin MP JP

[GoTfan]

The Right Honourable Nevill Chamberlain is hereby appointed Chancellor of the Exchequer with instructions to carry out Prime Minister Baldwin's first major piece of legislation:The Unemployment Insurance Act.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

The Ottoman Empire formally recognized the new Spanish government.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Regarding the Salmas Earthquake:

1. A martial law is proclaimed in the affected area to prevent looting and protect the victims from anybody trying to take the advantage of their tragedy.

2. Medical, engineering and support units of the army are to be redirected to the area to aid the population and start repairing the damage. For this reason, additional medical, engineering and support units that were due to demobilize will remain in service for now on.

3. Responsible ministries are to take care of feeding and sheltering the victims, including temporary relocation whenever needed.

4. The Ottoman Empire would gratefully accept a technological and material aid from abroad if offered.

[MASHED POTATOES. VOTE!]

Foreign Affairs:


1. We mourn the tragic death of General Chaing Kai-shek, who had been a proven friend of the Sublime Porte. That being said, our desire to maintain good relations with China is larger than any man or faction. (So, whoever gets the upper hand: we're ready to do the same business with you as with the previous regime. We just don't know what is happening now.).

2. All rumours alleging the Sublime Porte conspired with the Italian Emperor are nothing but vile slander, prepeared by the Roman Pope, blinded with his hatred toward Islam, so he could justify his coup establishing a hostile, theocratic regime.

Diplomatic relations with Italy, currently illegitimately ruled by the Roman Pope, are naturally suspended.

3. His Sacred and Imperial Majesty wishes to congratulate The Rt. Honourable Stanley Baldwin, MP, on his accession as the Prime Minister and hopes for the continuation of British-Ottoman cooperation to secure peace and stability in the region.


Military policy:

3. Work on improving military installations on our new border with Greece and Bulgaria for defensive purposes only. We want to be clear these lands will not become a launching pad for any sneak attack in future by either side.

3. As stated before, the Ottoman Empire needs to expand its air force. We shall use our increased revenue to buy aircrafts abroad, as well as to purchase air technology, so we can manufacture planes once we finish up setting our arms industry (OOC: something I've been talking about a while, so I appreciate an update).

4. Naval policy the same as stated before.

5. Form five voluntary divisions out of demobilized veterans who wishes to stay in uniforms.

6. Due to uncertain world situation and the need for dealing with the Salmas earthquake, the demobilization shall take a slower and more limited pace.


Economic and Social affairs:

1. Continue with a agricultural and industrial development of Mesopotamia.

2. Continue with improving our public education.

3. Improve transport in Southern Mesopotamia.

4. With the Persian Gulf being our main oil export route, the responsible ministries are to prepare proposals of building new pipelines and where we should direct these.