Statement by TUV chairman Cusher councillor Keith Radcliffe:
“However one describes the offer from Westminster – a bribe or blackmail – no true Unionist should accept it as the price for the Union.
“Make no mistake – there are powerful forces in Northern Ireland who are currently seeking to condition the Unionist people to meekly accept a betrayal which would see Unionist ministers return to serve in a Protocol implementing Executive. Such would be bad enough but do not forget the booby prize of Michelle O’Neill as First Minister – something both the DUP and indeed the UUP refused to say they would accept during the last Assembly election.
“I would urge Unionists to remain resolute. The constitutional future of Northern Ireland is not something which should be decided because of the supposed promise of a few more pounds.
“TUV is clear – Ulster should not be for sale. Do other Unionists share that position? We will soon find out.”