Julian Robertson, a spokesperson from the Northern Ireland Conservatives, has pointed out that Northern Ireland already has “second class MPs”, after a number of local members of the House of Commons expressed alarm that proposals to allow only English representatives to vote on English matters could dilute their effectiveness.
“It’s understandable that MPs are wary of creating a two tier parliament at Westminster, with members from devolved regions deprived of a say on English issues which nevertheless have a real bearing on policy and budgets right across the UK,” Julian pointed out. “However Northern Ireland MPs have already consigned themselves to second class status by refusing to participate in mainstream national politics. Indeed one of the most vocal complainants, Naomi Long, made a pointed decision not to join the government, alongside Liberal Democrats with whom her party is allied.”
“Rather than bring influence to bear and make her constituents’ voice heard at the heart of government, she chose instead 5 years of powerless isolation. The same can be said for all the current Northern Ireland MPs, who decide to stand outside the mainstream of UK politics and rarely make themselves heard on important national issues which also affect us locally.”
“The new Northern Irish Conservative party will offer voters the opportunity to make their votes meaningful within the context of UK politics. We’ve been fortunate enough to have a Secretary of State who has effectively become the mainstream MP which Northern Ireland otherwise lacks. He’s championed our cause at the cabinet table and the government has delivered a favourable financial settlement, extra money for security, a solution to the PMS crisis, reduced Air Passenger Duty and a saved Coast Guard Centre in Bangor, as well as spearheading efforts to grow the economy.”
“That shows what can be achieved with proper engagement. At the next general election the electorate will have the choice to vote for a modern, centre-right, pro-Union Northern Irish party, which plays a full-role in the UK Conservative Party, rather than parties which voluntarily consign themselves to a second class, semi-detached role at Westminster.”