IBN Newscaster: Today we have with us two experts in the fields of Federation politics and interstellar law, James Kong of Earth and T'il Of Vulcan. It's a pleasure to have you with us today.

Kong: Good to be here.

T'il: Thank you for your welcome.

IBN Newscaster: Well now, let's just start off with the basics. We all know that Argus II has been a long-standing member of the Federation, and from what I understand this is the first time the Argus government has ever officially clashed horns with the Federation council over a matter of planetary law. Any idea why this is happening?

Kong: Well if I may? I believe that this was long in coming. The Federation council has done nothing to curtail the rising unrest in many of the outlying Federation worlds and that, I think, is what has lead to this situation coming to a head.

T'il: I disagree. Federation law has always been careful not to influence the planetary laws of member worlds. This is not a matter for discussion, any more then the Federation's---

Kong: But surely you agree that planetary law must be secondary to official Federation law? I mean if a race condoned slavery or constant war, would their law supersede the Federation's?

T'il: No. However in this matter I think that there is no place for emotional morality issues in this discussion. In the Federation charter each member is guaranteed the right to govern their own worlds as they see fit. It's a simple matter of law.

Kong: Well I don't think it's that simple. To be a member of the Federation requires a certain ethical high ground and a responsibility that Argus II has just forfeited by re-enacting a law that hasn't been in effect for nearly three hundred years. As a member of the Federation, they are expect to stand by---

T'il: Our moral code? Is that what you were about to say?

Kong: Well, yes actually.

T'il: And that is precisely the reason why the law is so specific. They can't force any other members of the Federation to follow this rule, but they can do whatever they want. Legally, they can do whatever they want.

Kong: So you're saying that the reason the Federation policy makers folded on this issue was because of a law? No, I don't think so. The Federation has stepped in before to stop things like this, and this time it feels different. I'm certain that there is more going on here then meets the eye, some form of political meandering that's going to allow a barbaric law to take effect just to cater to the whims of a few aliens!

T'il: Excuse me? You seem to---

IBN Newscaster: Well, that's all the time we have right now folks, but don't worry - you can read all about this on FedNet. Just navigate to our site, IBN-Home/Fed, and look at all the evidence for yourself. Is this law legal; is it morally just? Potent questions and ones that you, the viewers will have to decide on for yourselves. Thank you and goodnight.