Cameron speeech - snap verdict

Sir Reg Empey is currently on the stage and I'm crouched at one side of the hall typing away on Michael's laptop, so forgive me if this piece is a little rough. David Cameron left ten minutes ago, having electrified the hall.

He reiterated his commitment to creating a dynamic force with Ulster Unionists, cementing NI's status as a peaceful, prosperous part of the UK. His vision is, he maintains based on three strands - a belief in the Union, a belief in democracy and a deep respect between the two parties.

Cameron stressed that he is not a Little Englander, he believes in a big Union. What draws us together is a shared belonging based on our past and our destiny.

Noteworthy points - Cameron alluded to his relationship with Conservative MPs Gow and Naeve, who were killed by the IRA. He reiterated several times that he will not be neutral on the Union, actually using the 'selfish and strategic' phrase. Clearly though the alliance will contest FST and South Belfast. Quite right too.

A great message. More considered, less hurried reaction later.

Comments

Manfarang said…
Relationship with Neave and Gow?
Did David Cameron ever meet them?
6 December 2008 at 13:43
Owen Polley said…
Purportedly his first speech was for one and the other was the first constituency mp he voted for.
7 December 2008 at 17:20
Manfarang said…
Well that doesn't do much for a so called modern and pluralist image.
8 December 2008 at 11:45
O'Neill said…
Manfarang

If you believe in "Pluralism" you acknowledge and welcome the existance of different types of peoples amd opinions within your society. Cameron merely mentioned two murdered members of his party, that surely doesn't disqualify him from also believing in the pluralist society.
8 December 2008 at 18:32
Anonymous said…
The wealth of the mind is the only wealth.


--------------
Johns Hopkins University
4 November 2010 at 05:43
Anonymous said…
We must accept finite disappointment, but we must never lose infinite hope.

-----------------------------------
26 December 2010 at 23:02
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