'UUP did not divide unionism'

In responding to ‘Unionist Voter’, an apparent DUP voter by the tone of the letter, I would like to stress that it was not the Ulster Unionist Party, or the Conservative Party who initially caused division within unionism. That is something the DUP can claim victory for all on their own.

In relation to unionist unity candidates – this is something that the DUP has made increasingly difficult given their behaviour towards their fellow unionists.

It appears the DUP would prefer to work alongside their SF colleagues rather than pay attention to the comments and concerns of the UUP. This was particularly evident during last week’s policing and justice debate when Peter Robinson devoted 12 of his 15 minute speech to attacking the UUP rather than focusing on Sinn Fein. How does that relate to unionist unity?

‘Unionist Voter’ also talks about a hung parliament – something that has only happened twice in the past 90 years.

The reality is that the best way that voters in Northern Ireland can influence a future Conservative Government is by backing a Conservatives and Unionists candidate. Rather than lobbying the Government from the outside, each of our candidates will be in a position to influence from within. Conservatives and Unionists will be putting the interests of Northern Ireland at the heart of British politics – this is the unique position that only we can offer.

As for cuts to the Northern Ireland budget? The reality is that the Labour Party has made a mess of the country’s finances giving us the largest debt in our peacetime history. The next Government (no-matter who they may be) is going to have to make reductions in spending across the board. The real divide is between a Conservative Government that will tackle the deficit so that mortgages can stay lower for longer, and a Labour Government that would put it off and threaten our recovery with higher interest rates.