Wessex Regionalism: A Twelve Point Programme

from a historical Party leaflet.

Please note that this text is archival and does not necessarily reflect current WR opinion or policy.

This programme illustrates how a self-governing Wessex might apply its powers. It is not binding on members or supporters of the Wessex Regionalists.

  1. The same degree of self-government for Wessex as should be offered to Scotland, as the beginning of a federal pattern for Europe as a whole.
  2. The creation of a Wessex regional assembly, the Witan, for the direction of our internal affairs, together with a simplified system of local government.
  3. That the Witan shall automatically receive an adequate proportion of all taxation revenue collected in the UK, to fund regional responsibilities as the Witan sees fit (e.g. employment, housing, transport, agriculture, fisheries, education, the health service, social welfare, law and order).
  4. That the revenues from our mineral resources (including Dorset oil) be re-invested in the development of alternative energy sources, and in long-term regional employment opportunities, with the ultimate aim of self-sufficiency for Wessex in energy, nutrition and all essential manufacture.
  5. The introduction of a property tax to be paid by any house buyer who has not worked or resided in Wessex either for seven years of his or her life, or for three consecutive years over the period immediately prior to the purchase.
  6. The control of industrial expansion in Wessex, to ensure ecological protection and sympathy with the local environment. Also the encouragement of small businesses, craft industries, and community work projects wherever they may be economically viable.
  7. The promotion of Wessex as the political and economic ally of all other agricultural regions within Europe, to operate in defending common interests against their transformation by those regions which are more highly industrialised.
  8. The provision of a Wessex-oriented transport system to link our principal cities without having to depend largely on routes directed towards London, and with special emphasis on providing a satisfactory system of public transport.
  9. Support for the various Wessex arts councils and Wessex tourist boards to encourage the growth of a regional identity and consciousness in the presentation of our region as a cultural whole.
  10. The conservation of all that is valuable in our architectural heritage, with special attention to our cottages and villages, and provision for investigation and protection of ancient sites.
  11. The formation of a Wessex radio and television channel.
  12. The promotion of a Wessex identity in sporting activities on a par with Scotland and Wales.

WESSEX AWAKE!