The Libertarian Party: ten years strong
Andrew Withers Party Chairman
The UK Libertarian Party came into being ten years ago in response to a long forgotten authoritarian atrocity carried out by Gordon Brown. Gordon Brown’s authoritarian measures have been forgotten due to the continual and subsequent authoritarian laws passed since. This ever authoritarian legislation has stemmed from: alleged ‘Conservatives; their ridiculous running mates being the not-so-liberal and not-so-democratic – Liberal Democrats in Coalition; now we contend with this current minority Conservative Administration (which is almost incapable of defending the national interest with regard to the EU). In terms of national defence – such authoritarian measures continue apace.
The party we created is minarchist at heart, and is founded on the premise that people know what is best for them, their families and their money.
The national debt is at almost £2 trillion, and yet the Statist Troika Parties in Parliament keep racking up debt and printing money to prop up a welfare state which is beyond reform! As a Ponzi scheme, it will fail.
We are also ten years on from the Banking Crisis (mass institutional fraud and criminal behaviour) which has meant a lost generation who cannot afford a roof over their heads. Yet the banking system is still firmly against new market entrants entering into banking: the oil which makes the engine of commerce run.
The party we created is minarchist at heart, and is founded on the premise that people know what is best for them, their families and their money.
Constitutionally we argue for direct democracy and devolution on the Swiss model with heavily armed neutrality. On social issues, the way you live your life is up to you so long as you harm nobody else or expect the state to finance your lifestyle (and yes, that includes the massed ranks of the Civil Service.)
We have created a manifesto of ‘Freedom and Liberty’, which is not focused merely on one issue. Since inception it has been a continual challenge amongst political hostility and the keyboard warriors are still sniping. Yet despite obstacles, our activist base is growing – and a new generation that was still at school when we were founded – is building. We are forging new alliances in both the UK and through membership of the International Alliance of Libertarian Parties across the world. It is worth remembering that the two main party leaders in opposition will be in their seventies at the next general election. Theresa May is the same age as me! This is not a healthy situation to have and new blood is required.
I am looking forward to the next decade as being that which sees the mainstream breakout for the Libertarian Party.
These are exciting and challenging times!