DUP call on Prime Minister to re-negotiate Brexit deal

Q Newsdesk

DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds has told Boris Johnson his party will only support a Brexit deal that protects the Union.

Addressing his party conference in Belfast, Mr Dodds referenced Mr Johnson's speech at the same event last year, when he pledged not to erect economic barriers in the Irish Sea.

"Stick to your word, Prime Minister," Mr Dodds told delegates.

"This party has always made clear that we want a deal.

"A deal that works for the whole of the United Kingdom and for the European Union. A deal that recognises Northern Ireland's unique history and geography.

"A deal that supports our business community and families across this Province.

"But, this party will only support a deal that ensures Northern Ireland leaves the European Union in a way that protects both the economic and constitutional integrity of our United Kingdom."

Mr Dodds said the current deal provided the "worst of both worlds".

Mr Dodds added: "Today I give clear notice that going forward the Democratic Unionist Party will look at every proposal, every legislative provision, and every amendment through one prism and one prism only - how does this best protect the Union of Great Britain and Northern Ireland?

"Some would say yes to anything, some would say no to everything, the DUP does what is right for Northern Ireland.

"The Prime Minister wants to deliver Brexit and so do we.

"We were ready and willing to support a sensible Brexit deal for the whole of the United Kingdom.

"But not at any price."

DUP leader Arlene Foster has demanded honesty from the Government on Brexit, as she vowed to keep opposing the current deal until changes are made.

Ms Foster told her party conference that the Prime Minister's withdrawal agreement would take Northern Ireland in the "wrong direction".

"With our 10 votes being so critical in Parliament, there is a great responsibility to make sure we support the right decisions for Northern Ireland but have the boldness and strength to stand up and say no when we need to," she said.

"On Brexit, we will not give support to the Government when we believe they are fundamentally wrong and acting in a way that is detrimental to Northern Ireland and taking us in the wrong direction."

"We will oppose them and we will use our votes to defeat them."

"Let me say clearly from this platform today that we want to support a deal that works for the whole of the United Kingdom and which does not leave Northern Ireland behind."

"But without change, we will not vote for the Prime Minister's agreement."

"It would be bad for Northern Ireland economically and will weaken the foundations of this great United Kingdom."