Tom Elliott, Ulster Unionist MP for Fermanagh and South Tyrone, has asked Chris Grayling, the Leader of the House, about the Government’s plans for the future of the Union.

Mr Elliott said:

“Government must be strong in protecting and sustaining the Union of the United Kingdom, which is currently at risk. With the surge of nationalism in Scotland, the Union of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is in a most vulnerable position. The Ulster Unionist Party is determined to continue to play a pro-active role in strengthening that Union.

“While I understand some of the arguments for English Votes for English Laws, the proposals have been ill-thought out. There are obvious consequences if budgets are being changed for the Department of Health in England as that has a knock-on effect on the Northern Ireland Health budget through the Barnett formula.

“We of course have the Government`s current piecemeal approach to the Union with the Scotland Bill, English Votes for English Laws and I’m sure there will be many other items to come forward in the coming years. The Government needs to outline an overall strategy for the Union at an early stage.

“Ulster Unionist MPs will continue to provide vital contributions in the best interests of the United Kingdom.  We will not accept Government proposals that would weaken the role that Northern Ireland MPs play in this house.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

Hansard 16/07/2015

 Tom Elliott (Fermanagh and South Tyrone) (UUP) -

 If the Leader of the House and his colleagues wish to visit Northern Ireland as well during their holidays, they are welcome to do so.

 During the passage of the Scotland Bill, we have had two debates on English votes for English laws, and the possibility of other legislation on devolved matters in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. Will the Leader of the House set out his vision, or the Government’s vision, for the Union during this Parliament, so that we know exactly what their priorities are, and can be assured that theirs is not a piecemeal approach?

Chris Grayling:

I hear what the hon. Gentleman says, and we will continue to discuss that issue. It is important for us to set out that vision for the Union. We want a strong Union with strong devolved Assemblies in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. We want fairness for the English. We want local communities and cities in England to have greater responsibility for managing their affairs. Ultimately, however, we want a strong Union in which we all work together. I might add that the hon. Gentleman, in Northern Ireland, benefits from what I believe to be one of today’s finest and most popular tourist attractions, namely the Iron Throne.