Commenting on the latest reports of DUP/UUP talks, TUV Leader Jim Allister said:-

“From the moment the DUP stole David Trimble’s clothes and policies and bought into his Belfast Agreement, there really has been little of substance to distinguish the UUP and DUP: they are those Unionists who gave us and believe in and wish to continue terrorist-inclusive government.

“So in pursuit of mutual self-interest, including preserving the iniquity of mandatory coalition, they probably hope for a future in merger, made all the more palatable for a DUP now petrified of fighting an election in its own besmirched name and record. If Sir Reg’s party wishes to rescue them, that is a matter for the UUP, though they might be advised to watch their backs.

“So, the ‘Unionist unity’ being talked about is a self-serving marriage of convenience, deliberately designed to exclude anyone who dares to still embrace Traditional Unionist principles. The coalescing of pro-Sinn Fein in government Unionists merely expands the ground for those unionists who still reject such abandonment of principle.”