Tom says no to single party

Editorial Department • Published 26 Aug 2010 16:00 0 Comments

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FERMANAGH MLA Tom Elliott set out his plans for the future of the Ulster Unionist Party yesterday.

Mr. Elliott was speaking at the launch of his leadership campaign in County Antrim.

The would-be leader said he does not believe there will be a single unionist party in his lifetime.

”When I hear calls from the DUP for unionist unity, and if they mean a single party, my answer is clear and simple -- you will not see it under my leadership and I cannot see it in my own lifetime. I want to see the entire electorate treated with respect -- not treated for the convenience of the elected. Tom Elliott doesn’t do political dynasties. Some people in our party publicly say we need to sort out our values and who we are. Well, I’m sorry, I know what my values are and I don’t need a focus group to tell what they should be. My values are Ulster Unionist values. Hard work, total dedication to public service, honesty, integrity, discipline and loyalty. Not just big talk with no delivery,” he said.

Mr. Elliott added: “If you elect me as leader, I will offer you that loyalty. But I will expect loyalty to flow back up in return. In fact, I will demand it. I am privileged to be allowed to seek the leadership of Ulster Unionism. It represents a cause I am proud to serve. I would be honoured to be your leader if you grant me that honour.”

Supported by fellow colleagues MEP Jim Nicholson, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey and the party’s deputy leader Danny Kennedy, Mr. Elliott pledged to strive for the development and enhancement of the union, work to rejuvenate the unionist vote, bring Ulster unionism back to the fore, support the economy and give the party his honesty and hard work: “I will never substitute substance and truth for spin and political opportunism,” he said.

He also said he would end the electoral link with the Conservative Party: “I promise you this. No more UCUNF (Ulster Conservatives and Unionists - New Force). We must not enter an election as anything other than the Ulster Unionist Party. We must not enter an election flying any colours other than our own.”

Mr. Elliott also said he “knows what it’s like to be a grassroots member” of the UUP: “I have served my apprenticeship in the Ulster Unionist Party. I was a volunteer for many years, serving as polling agent in the polling station on election day, knocking the doors for election candidates and putting up posters. I have a vision to develop a settled mindset of the people of Northern Ireland that they are content to be part of the union, not just unionists but non-unionists. That can only be achieved by respect for each others point of view,” he said.

Sir Reg Empey announced he would be standing down from the Ulster Unionist Party following a disappointing election during which the party failed to win a single seat. On Monday, Lagan Valley MLA Basil McCrea, confirmed he intended to enter the race in an announcement from America.

Addressing the crowd in Antrim yesterday, Mr. Elliott couldn’t resist having a go at his rival contender: “It’s especially good to be here in Northern Ireland to launch my campaign and not feel I must launch it from another country.”

The race for the top job has commenced and on September 22, UUP party members will meet in Belfast to select their new leader.

This article appeared in Impartial Reporter 26 Aug 10

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