Ulster Unionist leader, Robin Swann MLA, has written to Labour Party Leader, Jeremy Corbyn MP, seeking clarity on the Labour Party`s position on the Union and the calling of a border poll in Northern Ireland.
Mr Swann said:
“The comments from Shadow Chancellor, John McDonnell MP, that a second Scottish Independence referendum was a matter for the Scottish Parliament and that the Labour Party would not block one, sets a very worrying and dangerous precedent for the future of the United Kingdom. It also raises questions for Jeremy Corbyn. Does he back Mr McDonnell`s comments or does he back official Labour Party Policy? Which is it to be?
“I have written to Jeremy Corbyn asking him to clarify his position on a second Scottish Independence referendum and that of his party. The reason I do so is because the Labour Party could potentially be in government and therefore would be in a position to have a very direct impact on the future of the whole of the United Kingdom.
“The comments from the Shadow Chancellor stand in direct contradiction of Labour Party policy. If that is John McDonnell`s view on Scottish Independence, what is his view about Northern Ireland`s place within the Union and the calling of a Border Poll? Does he and the Labour Party stand in support of the Union or do they stand on the side of Irish unity?