Lockhart quits DUP to sit as independent Unionist MP
The DUP’s Westminster agricultural spokesperson Carla Lockhart has confirmed that she has left the party.
She will now sit in the House of Commons as an independent Unionist.
In a personal statement issued a short time ago she confirmed that she has informed the party leader, Gavin Robinson, that she has resigned from the Democratic Unionist Party.
She said in a statement: “My first responsibility remains to the people of Upper Bann. You placed your trust in me, and I will continue to work every bit as hard for you, your family and our community.
"My leaving is on a point of principle. I stood in front of in or around 15,000 people and said this lady was not for turning. I have said Michelle O’Neill should be removed from office whilst allowing the Assembly to continue to function, as provided for in the legislation. I stand over that.
"I cannot stand idly by whilst Sinn Féin wilfully ignores the rule of law and the promised profound consequences fail to materialise.
"Today in the Assembly Michelle O’Neill again stands defiant, declaring she is as much First Minister this week as last week. This simply is not tolerable. A line in the sand needed to be drawn in unionism long ago: today I am drawing my line,” Ms Lockhart’s statement continues.
"For over twenty years, the DUP has been my political home. This is a sad day and a deeply personal decision. Many good people within the party remain my friends. That will not change.
"I do not intend to give a running commentary on its inner workings. I seek no conflict with any of my friends in the DUP.
"From Scarva in June this year right through to Drumcree, I have felt the onslaught of lies, abuse and attempts to make this about me as a person. But on both occasions I stood with the community that elects me. I stood up for them, and I stand over everything I did. I still do.
"Their courage, conviction and support strengthened my determination. I wouldn’t change a thing about standing with them.
"My principles have not changed. When I say I will take a stand, people should be able to trust that I will follow through.
"I am standing up for what I believe and I will continue to serve Upper Bann as your MP. At the next Westminster election, rest assured the name Carla Lockhart will be on the ballot paper,” she added.
"I am not establishing a new political party. I want to help build a grassroots movement, opening doors for young people, encouraging women into leadership and bringing Unionists together around shared principles and practical action.
"I look forward to working with all shades of Unionism, elected or not, to advance the cause we love and give our time to preserve.
"Today I have published my Vision for Unionism, setting out my principles and programme of action.
Download it here: https://irp.cdn-website.com/.../A_renewed_vision_for...
“Let’s get the beat of the drum back in our hearts and move forward together.”