Month: June 2023

Herman Sabo, member of the Georgian Parliament for Girchi (libertarian) Party

The country of Georgia sits in the Caucasus at the intersection of Europe and Asia. With access to the Black Sea, it borders Russia, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan.  Georgia regained independence in 1991 following the collapse if the Soviet Union, and is now a parliamentary democracy, with a 150 member unicameral chamber.  Four members come from Girchi and classical liberal / libertarian party, and we spoke with Herman Sabo (also Herman Szabó) from Girchi and a Member of the Parliament of Georgia.

By www.pia.ge, CC BY-SA 4.0,

How did you first get involved with libertarian politics and Girchi?

I got involved in Girchi and politics in 2015 when 4 MPs from the opposition split from the “United National Movement” party and in 2016 created their own political platform called “New Political Center – Girchi” (“Girchi” translates in English as “Pinecone”). At first, I was hired as a media relations manager. I was arranging press conferences and communicating with media representatives.  Soon after, I got interested in the ideas of my party and started listening to our politicians.  YouTube was also a great help in understanding what our political goals are, and why. Also, what kind of morality libertarianism based on.

While still serving as a media manager, I started my own educational project, “Sabo’s translations“.  I was selecting short videos on YouTube about politics, morals, economics, and philosophy, translating them into Georgian for public access.

In 2020 our party gained 2.9% in elections, and now we are holding 4 seats in the 150-seat Parliament of Georgia.

“We’re still fighting with the Soviet legacy in almost every social or government institution. Our education system is almost the same as 50 years ago. Our Criminal code is the same (even stricter) as the Soviet criminal code.”

For those that don’t know much about Georgia, can you tell us about the big issues facing the county?

Georgia has population of 3.7 million, a post-soviet country with lots of issues.  We’re still fighting with the Soviet legacy in almost every social or government institution. Our education system is almost the same as 50 years ago. Our Criminal code is the same (even stricter) as the Soviet criminal code.

The biggest issue is that after the fall of the Soviets, all the “government property” is still on the balance sheets of a free and more-less-capitalist Georgian government.  This means 70% of land, 100% of all forests, and 100% of all mineral goods are owned by the government and excluded from free market economics.

Our judiciary system is a mimicry of the Soviet system, as none of Georgia’s rulers have had the will or desire to truly reform it to achieve an independent and transparent court system.

As a result of all of this, we remain a poor, underdeveloped country, 7 times poorer than the average EU country.

“We are also very concerned by inflation caused by our Central bank (THE only source of inflation is a fiat-money issuer in every country), and we’d love to have a multicurrency regime in Georgia”

What are the party’s main policies, what would you most like to change in your country?

We are focused on spreading classic liberal values.  We understand that drastic reforms and changes could be suicidal for a political party if those reforms are not based on well-explained and well-understood ideas.  If we’ll succeed in explaining ideas like self-sovereignty, private property, and freedom of expression, we could lead Georgian society on a way of prosperity and rule of law, free and independent courts, and true decentralization of regions.

We are also very concerned by inflation caused by our Central bank (THE only source of inflation is a fiat-money issuer in every country), and we’d love to have a multicurrency regime in Georgia.  Citizens should be free to choose which money they trust and want to use – fiat, crypto, gold, etc.

How engaged are Georgians with Libertarian ideas?

Many classic liberal ideas were natural for Georgian society before the Soviet occupation of our country in 1921.  The founding father of modern Georgia, Ilia Chavchavadze, was a classic liberal (libertarian, in modern terms). He was translating and spreading books by famous libertarian author Frederic Bastiat.

Georgians were freedom-loving property owners, with guns/swords in every family, minding their businesses, and had a system of elected judges to resolve their everyday problems.  The Soviets changed everything and almost erased the image of “Old Georgian” from the minds of our parents and grandparents.

Our youth are more receptive to Libertarian ideas. They love freedom and feel that those ideas are organic to them, with some kind of gut feeling.  The older generation is not very fond of our ideas and ways. They see them as a threat to Georgian identity, but we try to explain that “Georgian identity” is whatever we are saying, not the ideas the Soviet KGB planted in our society.

So far, our success rate is only around 3%. [Note from Editor: This is far higher than in most countries]

“We’ve supported our communication with actions to prove that we believe in the ideas we talk about”

How does your party go about gaining support?

Since the beginning, we’ve chosen social media platforms and the internet as our main sources of spreading ideas and communicating with the potential electorate. Amongst Georgian political parties we’ve got;

Youth loves our tone of voice – straight-forward, down-to-earth, easy-to-understand, with good visualizations and infographics.

We’ve supported our communication with actions to prove that we believe in the ideas we talk about.  Girchi was fighting against Marijuana criminalization, so 84 of us planted Marijuana on 2017 New Year’s Eve. We were facing 12 years in jail for that Public Disobedience Act. Then we won in the Constitutional Court of Georgia, and now cannabis consumption is legal in our country.

Made before the party gain elected representatives.

We also fight against mandatory army draft, so we used our Defence Code, which says that “Priests are exempted from the army”. We created our own religious organization – “Biblical Freedom,” and ordained around 50,000 young Georgians up till today.  You can read more about this on our Wikipedia Page, in Euraianet, and at Radio Free Europe.

You can also find Girchi online and on Twitter.  To help fund Girchi go to https://www.girchi.com/donate/politician.

Podcast Episode 85 – Steve Gardner: SDP for Uxbridge & South Ruislip – ULEZ, Policing & Housing

We are joined by Steve Gardner, the SDP candidate for Uxbridge & South Ruislip in the upcoming Parliamentary by-election. Steve tells us about his background in the army, his love for his home constituency and his priorities of; scrapping the ULEZ expansion, improved pro-active policing and suitable and affordable housing.

You can also read interview with Steve mentioned in the podcast at https://croydonconstitutionalists.uk/steve-gardner-uxbridge/

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Contents:
00:00 – Intro
01:24 – Background in the Army
05:00 – The Constituency
06:48 – Priorities
12:20 – How to get involved
14:00 – Website & Events
16:22 – Outro

Martin Hartmann, President of the Libertarian Party in Switzerland.

Always keen to speak to those promoting liberty and freedom not just in the UK but across the globe, we were delighted to speak with Martin Hartmann, President of the Libertarian Party in Switzerland.

How did you first get involved with libertarian politics and the Libertarian Party?

In 2012, the Hayek Club of Zurich gave some lectures on Austrian economics at the university in the evening. This made more sense to me than what I had learned in my economics studies. In 2014, the Libertarian Party was founded, in which I have been involved ever since.

“people have forgotten self-responsibility. They can no longer decide for their lives. And they don’t want to”

For those that don’t know much about Swiss politics can you tell us about the big political issues facing the county?

Better safe than sorry – With Corona as well as with the whole climate discussion, people have forgotten self-responsibility. They can no longer decide for their lives. And they don’t want to. They would rather be “on the right side”. So they look for a general guide or leader to tell them what to do. The consequences: A bigger state, more debt, higher taxes, more laws and rules.

“Our constitution emphasizes federalism and subsidiarity. Unfortunately, we are experiencing just the opposite: centralism and one-size-fits-all solutions. Returning to the principles that have made us successful is crucial”

What are the party’s main policies, what would you most like to change in your country?

Our constitution emphasizes federalism and subsidiarity. Unfortunately, we are experiencing just the opposite: centralism and one-size-fits-all solutions. Returning to the principles that have made us successful is crucial. Better alternatives to a centralized one-size-fits-all approach would be a federal competition of systems and ideas – or even better – privately competing solutions. Private solutions outperform services provided by the state by far.

How engaged are the people of Switzerland with Libertarian ideas?

Unfortunately, they are not really committed. The majority follow the existing system, which leads to all the failures we currently have. Perhaps they live in fear of trying something themselves and taking responsibility. At least some awakening during Corona has made the Swiss think about alternatives.

How does your party go about gaining support?

We participate in elections – without a real chance, but to reach the public. We meet physically at least once a month. And we maintain a network of freethinkers by means of our libertarian calendar with all liberal events in Switzerland. We also write quarterly election recommendations and participate in legislative deliberations.

“Remain independent! Allow secession. Reject all centralism and socialism”

Lastly, do you have any thoughts on British politics?

Remain independent! Allow secession. Reject all centralism and socialism. Don’t let the EU take control away from you again. Stop all government spending outside your country – no development aid and no wars abroad.

Wir lieben Freiheit – We love freedom

The Libertarian Party in Switzerland can be found online, on Facebook, on Twitter, and on Instagram.

Steve Gardner, SDP candidate for Uxbridge & South Ruislip by-election.

Following the resignation of Boris Johnson from Parliament, a by-election has been called in the Uxbridge & South Ruislip constituency for the 20th July.  We’ve spoken local man Steve Gardner, who is the Social Democratic Party (SDP) candidate for election.

“The SDP is a patriotic, economically left-leaning and socially right leaning, culturally traditional party”

This may be the first time some people have had a chance to vote for the SDP. Can you introduce the party and say a bit about what it stands for.

The SDP is a patriotic, economically left-leaning and socially right leaning, culturally traditional party. We’ve been going for some time and these days, we’re a grass roots party with no vested interests. We have long term policies and genuinely want to improve things for the better. After feeling politically homeless, I was directed to the SDP and I liked what I saw!

“My entire family reside in the constituency with the vast majority of us in Hillingdon and it really is a great place to live”

Can you introduce yourself to the people of Uxbridge & South Ruislip, and also tell us what got you involved in politics?

My name is Steve Gardner and I’ve lived in the constituency for over 25 years. I served in the British Army for five years and was operational during the First Gulf War. I was also an Army Cadet Officer for 15 years, leaving as a Captain. My entire family reside in the constituency with the vast majority of us in Hillingdon and it really is a great place to live. I just want to make it better and safer. I’m sure those who live in the surrounding areas of Ickenham, Yiewsley, Cowley and West Drayton would agree.

I never really had any interest in becoming a politician but I was urged to do so by family and friends. The system is broken; politicians no longer seem to work for the people and that needs to change. To do this you have to join the system. To be elected as the representative of your community is one of the highest honours one can achieve and shouldn’t be taken lightly. We urgently need to shake the system up for the better.

“Scrap the ULEZ extension. It’s a stealth tax that will have a minimal effect on the environment. It’s just a way of making easy money and it’s always the motorist who has to pay the price”

If elected what are the local challenges you want to champion?

My three main election issues are to:

  1. Scrap the ULEZ extension. It’s a stealth tax that will have a minimal effect on the environment. It’s just a way of making easy money and it’s always the motorist who has to pay the price. It’s outrageous that it’s got this far and people are rightfully angry.
  2. To fight crime through improved pro-active policing. The politicians have massively let down the Police who have been unable to carry out their jobs properly. They should be supported, backed and encouraged to pro-actively police our communities to make them safer. Everyone should be able to feel safe and secure.
  3. To have affordable and suitable housing that prioritises local residents. The main reason that the community spirit is absent is because people can’t afford to live where they grew up which means they move out of the area. They should have priority over local housing. Communities that bond are safer communities for all.

How can people find out more and get involved in your campaign?

Through social media either on my twitter page @SGardnerSDP, or via Facebook @SDPNWLondon.  More information on the SDP can be found on our website – https://sdp.org.uk.

I’m confident that people will read our policies and agree with the majority of them and hopefully support us. We’re the only real credible alternative to the same old show that gets played out every few years. It’s time for change.

Jonathon Mabbutt, SDP candidate for Bethnal Green and Stepney

Jonathon Mabbutt has been announced as the Social Democratic Party (SDP) parliamentary candidate for Bethnal Green and Stepney.  We spoke with Jon about party, the constituency, and the upcoming campaign.

“We passionately believe in democracy, freedom of speech and a rational approach to policy”

Many people will have heard of the SDP, but maybe not for some years.  Can you briefly introduce the party and tell us what it stands for?

The Social Democratic Party was once a big force in British politics, finishing third in an alliance with the Liberals. The majority of the party merged to form the Liberal Democrats but those who remained kept the party alive. Fast forward to today and we are the fastest growing grassroots party and plan to field more candidates at the next election that at any time since the 80s.

We are fighting for the common good in Britain’s national interest. We passionately believe in democracy, freedom of speech and a rational approach to policy. We believe in a strong social sector and building national resilience against global shocks. We hold to traditional values and stand for community, family, and nation.

Can you also let our readers know about yourself, and what led you to get involved in politics?

I am a husband and father and I have been working for charities in the homelessness and addiction sector for the last 15 years. I was a youth and children’s worker for a church for 2 years prior to that. I have always wanted to do work that helped people, especially those in difficult circumstances, and getting involved with the SDP is really a continuation of that.

“the SDP is a party that is actually offering solutions and reflects the mainstream very well, especially in places left behind by political indifference”

You’re the parliamentary candidate for Bethnal Green and Stepney, what’s made you decide to stand?

I have always been interested in politics but never felt represented by any of the mainstream parties. This is quite a common experience. Much of the nation is pretty detached from the views of the Westminster bubble. By contrast the SDP is a party that is actually offering solutions and reflects the mainstream very well, especially in places left behind by political indifference. If we are to bring change that would benefit us all then we need good candidates. After much consideration I decided that I couldn’t complain from the side-lines any longer.

“We have huge issues of overcrowding with many, many flats housing far more people than there are bedrooms. The social housing stock here is miniscule and what remains is often very run down”

What do you see as the big concerns for the constituency and what issues do you hope to champion?

I’m standing in Bethnal Green. We have huge issues of overcrowding with many, many flats housing far more people than there are bedrooms. The social housing stock here is miniscule and what remains is often very run down. We also have extremely high levels of child poverty and a lack of social cohesion.

On the national level I’m passionate about standing up for free speech and free association, a respect for the family and the role of parents and getting the state back into housebuilding. I’m in favour of a reduction in economic migration and a compassionate yet sensible approach to the refugee crisis which prioritises taking the most insecure people in refugee camps over those from Europe crossing illegally with the help of criminal gangs.

For those eager to help, how can they get involved in the campaign?

I would invite people to take a look at the policies and new declaration on our website sdp.org.uk, and if they speak to your concerns then consider joining us. Likewise, you can e-mail me at [email protected].

You can also follow Jon on Twitter at https://twitter.com/jonmabbutt.

Podcast Episode 84 – Tony Brown: Libertarian Party Mayoral Candidate; ULEZ, Housing & Policing

We are joined by Tony Brown, who was recently announced as the Libertarian Party UK candidate to take on Sadiq Khan in next year’s election to be Mayor of London. Tony explains his philosophy and his plans for London.

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Contents:
00:00 – Intro
01:38 – Who is Tony Brown?
05:07 – Why Libertarian Party UK?
07:33 – ULEZ
08:37 – Policing
10:25 – Transport
13:11 – Housing
17:31 – Wasted Vote?
20:57 – Campaigning
22:03 – How to get involved
23:30 – Event
23:53 – Outro

Liberty drinks, Baker Street, Friday 30th June.

“Socialism in general has a record of failure so blatant that only an intellectual could ignore or evade it.” – Thomas Sowell

On the great Thomas Sowell’s 93rd Birthday, Friday 30th June, we are joining like-minded liberty lovers at a regular libertarian’s drinks in The Metropolitan Bar, 7 Station Approach, Marylebone, London, NW1 5LA, (near Baker Street station) from 7pm.

“What is history but the story of how politicians have squandered the blood and treasure of the human race?” – Thomas Sowell

We welcome any liberty loving followers of the Croydon Constitutionalists, and others who can come along for this meet-up.

Come along to Baker Street on Friday 30th June to The Metropolitan Bar, 7 Station Approach, Marylebone, London, NW1 5LA, from 7pm, for a night of catching up with fellow liberty lovers.

“Crusaders [against alcohol and drugs] cannot accept the fact they are not God, that they have neither the right nor the competence to run other people’s lives.” – Thomas Sowell

Croydon Council – please just do your job

By Mike Swadling

In 2019 I wrote a plea on this site that Croydon Council focus on just doing it’s job.  Croydon Council had just been busy spending our money on the Croydon Park Hotel and Colonnades Retail Park.  At the time I asked if the council had fully taken account of the risks should we have a downturn.  I also wondered if it more made sense to have the best and brightest at the council, focused on providing services rather than property speculation.  Well as we now know Croydon Council fell into de facto bankruptcy.

“looking for offers in excess of £10million, the only snag being they purchased Davis House for £19million in 2008”

Croydon Park Hotel was sold at a loss of £5 million.  The Colonnades Retail Park appears to be up for sale, and we await the final bill for this property speculation.  In case you think this is a one (or two) off, it appears Croydon Council has a longer history of property speculation.  The council is now in the process of selling Davis House and is looking for offers in excess of £10million, the only snag being they purchased Davis House for £19million in 2008.  MyLondon reports “At the time, the Conservative administration, described the £19 million purchase as a “good investment”.  Cabinet member for finance, Jason Cummings, was not a councillor at the time but said the investment was “reasonable”. He said: “Broadly speaking it is thought to have been a reasonable and justifiable price, I don’t think there was any controversy about it.”

” Councils engaging in property speculation are like the communists who think this time, unlike every other, it will be done properly and it won’t end in mass starvation”

No doubt at the time this was considered a good idea, the Croydon Park Hotel and Colonnades purchases were considered a good idea, the property speculation that led to Woking Council issuing a Section 114 notice with £2billion of debt, was considered a good idea at the time.  All, it turns out were very bad ideas.  Councils engaging in property speculation are like the communists who think this time, unlike every other, it will be done properly and it won’t end in mass starvation, and piles of dead bodies.

For those following the story at Woking Council this report by SurreyLive echo’s many of the problems that led to Croydon’s own bankruptcy: “A separate internal review was conducted that found long-standing issues dating back to before 2016 including an environment of weak financial controls, sub-optimal record keeping, and a lack of resources to manage complex company structures. There has also been an “absence of external audit opinions on the council’s accounts since 2018/19”.

Focusing on doing their job isn’t just restricted to abstaining from property speculation.  We’ve reported previously on the cost to taxpayers of Croydon Pride.  This peaked in 2019 at £65,000 and last year (in bankruptcy), Croydon Council has confirmed their sponsorship cost £10,000 of taxpayer funds:  

“We can confirm that Croydon Council provided a grant of £10,000 for Croydon Pride in 2022/23. This was part of our initial funding to prepare for the London Borough of Culture 2023: This is Croydon, and was provided from ring-fenced funds and not general council funding.”

“Whilst we should be thankful the cost to taxpayers is now less than 1/6th of what it was a few years ago, it’s still unclear to me why you, or any other taxpayers should have subsidised my weekend entertainment”

Whilst we should be thankful the cost to taxpayers is now less than 1/6th of what it was a few years ago, it’s still unclear to me why you, or any other taxpayers should have subsidised my weekend entertainment at the event.

The most concerning part of this is that Croydon Council believes it is somehow acceptable for a bankrupt council, that is cutting services, and who have had to increase council tax by 15%, to spend funds gathered from all out taxes on subsidising weekend entertainment for a few people (and people who are not struggling judging by the drink prices), just because it comes from a another pot of money. We have no news yet on what Croydon Council being the ‘Headline Sponsor’ of this years Croydon Pride will cost taxpayers, but if it’s anything like the previous ones they are great events, and you might want to get along on Saturday 15th July to get your money’s worth.