Perhaps DUP could provide clarity on their protocol policy
A letter from Cliff Cardwell:
If it can be taken at face value, many unionists will welcome the DUP’s resolute opposition to the Northern Ireland protocol as expressed during Monday’s meeting with the secretary of state Brandon Lewis.
However with another election a real possibility, it would be helpful if the party could agree on a precise definition of its stance on the protocol. DUP MLA’s like Gary Middleton (BBC Nolan Show, May 9) have reiterated their previous requirement that the protocol has to go in all its parts before the party enters government. But, speaking after his discussions with Mr Lewis, Sir Jeffrey Donaldson could be read as having lowered the bar by requiring only ‘decisive action’ by Westminster to get him and his party on board.
In this matter of crucial importance, perhaps the party could agree on its use of words so we all know who stands where.
Cliff Cardwell, Co Londonderry
• Other commentary:
• Ruth Dudley Edwards May 10: The nationalist vote is nowhere near enough for border poll
• Editorial May 10: If Irish language gets pledge today so must an overhaul of protocol
• Owen Polley May 9: Unionists have an issue with sectarian SF, not with nationalism
• Emma Little Pengelly May 9: There has been no increase in the nationalist vote in 25 years
• Henry McDonald May 9: A few facts are in order amid breathless reportage about SF
• Editorial May 9: It is clear that unionists need to have option of voting for a liberal party
• Ben Lowry May 7: Unionism now faces a considerable challenge in how to go forward
• Henry McDonald May 7: Sinn Fein’s day in the sun but no new dawn for Irish unity
• Editorial May 7: Unionism more than ever needs London’s help on the protocol
• Ben Lowry May 7: Unionist overall vote stays ahead of nationalist total, albeit narrowly
• Brian John Spencer: Unionism was given no wriggle room by nationalism