Tory future for UUP and new Assembly fudge recipe

The prospect of a UUP – Tory pact is interesting in a number of ways.

From a UUP point of view this could get the party off the hook of sectarian politics which has dominated it since its foundation.  David Cameron’s Conservative Party will not tolerate the sort of policies which the UUP promoted during their earlier relationship in the 20th century. In fairness to the new generation of UUP people, they seem very keen to find a new and relevant voice.  

The Tories will get a couple of extra MPs (they hope), something which could really matter in a hung parliament. It will all present a big challenge for the brave bunch of NI Tories. Takeovers, mergers or partnerships always lead to the assimilation of the smaller party and a significant loss of influence.  So whilst the UUP will become conservative in GB terms, NI Tories will become UUP back home.

As for the left wing unionists out there time will tell whether they will feel able to stay within the new arrangements or whether this will spur other conversations about politics here.

The O’Conall St post bag has been full of interesting correspondence this week. There were emails from Gary McKeown and Terry McErlane. Both of whom have launched new blogs. This is Gary’s second coming and a good read as always.

Up at the house on the Hill former journo and SDLP spin master, Ruairi O’Kane, has been cooking up his own culinary delights. He points out that his dish was an important omission from the recently published MLA cook book.

The Devolution of Justice and Policing Agreement Fudge

 Cooking instructions

Mix some DUP nuts with some crumbly and flakey Shinners and stir.

Cook up together in Stormont Castle for 150 days. Then leave to simmer until boiling point.

Add some dough from London.

Remember to remove all dates.

Then serve up as a sticky agreement and spoon feed to a cynical and bemused media and public and hope they swallow it.

For best results take the Devolution of Justice and Policing Agreement Fudge with a large pinch of salt.

Warning – may leave bitter taste in the mouth and could stick in the throat