Ulster Unionist Party Leader, Robin Swann MLA, has said that the focus for politicians should be on avoiding the UK leaving the European Union without a deal, rather than being dragged into chaos over Parliamentary procedure.
Robin Swann MLA said:
“The decision of the Prime Minister to prorogue Parliament is merely distracting from the fact we are edging ever closer towards leaving the European Union without a deal. A no-deal Brexit would be a total disaster for Northern Ireland.
“I don’t like that Parliament is being suspended during such an uncertain time for the country and it leaves me hugely concerned. However, spending the next number of weeks howling at the moon isn’t going to change the current course we are charting. Pressure must be kept on to secure a deal that works for the United Kingdom.
“I believe it would entirely suit those who are content to leave without a deal, no matter the consequences for Northern Ireland, for everyone else to chase their tail in the run up to October the 31st.
“In the short time left we must not lose focus. The reality is the current deal we have is unworkable due to the backstop and has not commanded a Parliamentary majority in any previous attempt to pass it through Westminster. Securing terms for our exit that will provide certainty and prosperity for the people of Northern Ireland must be the top of our agenda. Being dragged into chaos over Parliamentary procedure will not do that.”