01/11/2026
✍️ Statement by Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows MLA:
“My position on unionist cooperation is a matter of public record. At our party conference I said we should talk seriously about maximising the unionist vote, and I committed to playing our part in expanding unionist representation at Westminster. I also said that cooperation cannot mean one party always giving and another always taking.
“The Ulster Unionist Party is willing to take part in serious, constructive discussions, but they need purpose and discretion. A phone call minutes before a public letter is published is no substitute for proper engagement. Progress is far more likely through private discussion than through the media.
“It would also be helpful to clarify whether this proposal has the full support of the DUP leadership. I note that Jonathan Buckley’s call appears to be directed towards his own party leader as well as others. Any discussions must involve parties whose representatives have a clear mandate to participate and the authority to deliver.
“Talks will only be productive once the DUP has resolved its own internal difficulties and can come to the table with an agreed approach rather than as a divided party.
“Cooperation has its place, but better management of the votes we already have is not a growth strategy. Our task is to give more people a Union they believe in, politics they can trust and a future worth voting for.”
