Lidington accuses Corbyn of ‘hostility and scepticism’ to UK

THERESA May’s deputy has accused Jeremy Corbyn of expressing ‘hostility’ and ‘indifference’ towards the Union.

David Lidington told the conference he would ensure every government department would consider the impact on the Union before making any decisions.

He also revealed the Prime Minister will chair a special meeting of her Cabinet later this year to discuss how to ensure the bonds of the UK family of nations are strengthened.

But, the Minister, Mrs May’s de facto deputy, claimed the Labour leader is at best ‘indifferent’ to the Union between England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and, at worst, expresses ‘scepticism and hostility’.

His attack comes after Mr Corbyn last month refused to rule out granting a second independence referendum if he ever becomes Prime Minister.

During a session on ‘a stronger, fairer United Kingdom’, Mr Lidington said: ‘We are all stronger from being part of that Union. There are parties, political leaders, who would either walk away from that Union and follow the path of separation, or those whose track record is at best indifference and, at worst, scepticism and hostility towards that Union.’

‘We value that constitutional union and it will remain central to our party’s commitment. We will continue to defend, uphold and strengthen the Union.’

His aides confirmed later that the ‘hostility’ comment was a reference to Mr Corbyn.