Ulster Unionist MEP, Jim Nicholson, has stated that we need a united approach across the UK to the Brexit negotiations and welcomes the comments from Scottish Conservative and Unionist leader, Ruth Davidson MSP, that the answer cannot be to create new borders within the United Kingdom.

Jim Nicholson MEP said:

“We may never get to hear the full truth of who knew what and when that led to the debacle that unfolded on our television screens and in social media, but whatever the extent of the coalition between the DUP and Conservative Party, the wheels came off yesterday, to the detriment of the country as a whole.

“Now they need to gather themselves up and get their act together because whatever they agree now will have profound implications for the United Kingdom for decades to come. We need a united approach across the UK. 

“It is best for all if we can agree a deep and comprehensive deal that builds on the strong relationships that have been built over recent years. There has been an incredible demonstration of the lack of understanding of unionists on display in recent days, none more so than on Monday when the Dublin Government, the EU and unfortunately some in UK Government circles demonstrated that they were ill-informed and completely ignorant of what ties the United Kingdom together.

“The Union is a tremendous force for good across the United Kingdom. Those of us who cherish the Union in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland may have differing views on any number of political issues. But we all understand the value of deep bonds across the United Kingdom, and that diminishing the Union or the UK single market ultimately hurts all of us.

“I therefore welcome comments from Scottish Conservative and Unionist leader Ruth Davidson emphasising that while we do not want a return to the borders of the past, the answer cannot be to create new borders with the United Kingdom. 

“Monday’s shambles in Brussels should act as a warning to those representing the United Kingdom’s interests in negotiations that pro-union people right across the Nation will not accept any clever tricks or constructive ambiguity that in any way hinder or diminish the economic, constitutional and political integrity of the United Kingdom. They should not be taken for granted.

“It is absolutely essential that we get this right, so if more time is needed then so be it.”