'Result is a vote for the future'

Describing the result as a vote for the future David Simpson said, “I fought this campaign on real issues that matter to people – jobs, investment, the economy etc. I am pleased that that positive campaign was endorsed by the people of Upper Bann.

“When I was first elected as MP some five years ago I promised that I would give the kind of representation that this constituency deserves. I kept that promise. I am happy to make the same pledge now once again.

“Several key issues lay at the heart of the recent General Election campaign in Northern Ireland. For example there was the issue of protecting our economic recovery. But there was also the whole question of whether Northern Ireland would move forward or be lurched backwards.”

Referring to the poor show of support for the other Unionist parties in last week’s General Election, Mr Simpson said there is only one way forward for Unionism.

“As with the rest of the province, Upper Bann sent out a very clear message to that effect.

“There is now no doubt that unionism has made up its mind on where it wants to go in the future. I would issue this invitation to other unionists regardless of whether they are UUP or TUV.

“There are many things that we all hold dear and many concerns that we hold in common. We all want to see Northern Ireland develop along certain lines, moving towards more voluntary arrangements and ever greater normality. Come and work with us and play your part in helping to achieve that.

“The DUP is now in a position of considerable electoral and political strength. However we are in the business of seeking to use that, not for selfish gain, but for the general good and the furtherance of unionism.

“There is a place at our side for others. We are willing to work with fellow unionists. I would invite others to come alongside of us, even now, and lend your assistance to that end.”