Something I'm thinking about in the context of my long inactive Frozen Spring TL, which I'm trying to revive.
Basic premise is that a general election is called after Sarajevo, but before the Russians start even partial mobilisation. Broad timetable is below. For the background to the election see the Frozen Spring TL in my sig line.
In theory therefore Asquith could go to war as per OTL, but that seems very unlikely. The question then becomes: How does Britain react to the events in Europe?
What I'm suggesting is that Asquith meets with Bonar Law and perhaps other party leaders and proposes that, whatever the outcome of the election, there should be a National Coalition led by whoever would in normal circumstances be asked to form a government which would last for 1 year or until the crisis in Europe is resolved, whichever comes first. I think it would take the actual invasion of Belgium to make this feasible. So around 7th August, the formal coalition agreement is announced. This is followed within a day or so by the mobilisation of the Army as a defensive measure. Asquith's announcement on this is to the effect that:
Basic premise is that a general election is called after Sarajevo, but before the Russians start even partial mobilisation. Broad timetable is below. For the background to the election see the Frozen Spring TL in my sig line.
- Election called 9 July 1914
- Dissolution of Parliament 20 July
- Election period 30 July - 14 August (at this time voting took place over an extended period, not on a single day)
In theory therefore Asquith could go to war as per OTL, but that seems very unlikely. The question then becomes: How does Britain react to the events in Europe?
What I'm suggesting is that Asquith meets with Bonar Law and perhaps other party leaders and proposes that, whatever the outcome of the election, there should be a National Coalition led by whoever would in normal circumstances be asked to form a government which would last for 1 year or until the crisis in Europe is resolved, whichever comes first. I think it would take the actual invasion of Belgium to make this feasible. So around 7th August, the formal coalition agreement is announced. This is followed within a day or so by the mobilisation of the Army as a defensive measure. Asquith's announcement on this is to the effect that:
- events in Europe are serious
- cannot place the country at risk because of the election uncertainties
- election will continue
- mobilisation ordered as defensive measure and to give new government the maximum flexibility in deciding on its response to the crisis.
- Does this seem feasible/likely?
- What would be probable response from Germany and France?
- What would be likely political response at home (assuming Bonar Law on side)
- Any other consequences?