*** Proposal for a FLOSS/Linux Political Party ***
I suggest a Linux Party is formed to promote the idea of free software (and possibly related ideas). The last European Election with the patent issue showed the relevance of politics to the free software movement. Voting purely on patents lead to some undesirable alliance partners. While as LUG Radio noted, the patent issue did not brake through into the mainstream media. If free software is to gain mass use, we need decision makers and media to be more aware. A Linux party with a free post drop and media time will do this just as other single issue parties have.
Q. What would be involved A. For a reasonable campaign per constituency i. 12 signatures and a 500 pound deposit ii. A leaflet designed on a personal computer iii.50,000 copies would be duplicated (these can contain adverts) about 250 pounds iv. Turning up to 2 husting (optional), just repeat the same answer to each question. v. 5 minutes radio interview.
"Manifesto" Could include *Use of FLOSS, Linux* no to DRM no software and look & feel patents open hardware standards (end vendor lock-in) free books end of EULAs no coding obfuscation DeCSS, freedom to watch DVDs Write what code you want End security paranoia freedom to listen to CDs stop criminalising end users Anti-Microsoft etc. etc.
Remember IP and computers are more important than ever, several billion may be saved by using FLOSS. Want more hospitals, tax cuts etc.
PS. As an FLOSS idea, I welcome copying and improving (anti-SPAM and virus policy) the document. Perhaps the party could have an honorary President like RMS, Linus or Alan Cox. I forgot to mention setting up a party involves 3 people signing some forms and a start up fee of 150 pounds. I can imagine Tux or GNU on the ballot paper now.
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