FAILURE AND FALLOUT
CONFIDENCE TRICK TO SHORE UP CONS
THE Tories and DUP yesterday agreed to work together in a “confidence and supply” deal.
Under the arrangement the Northern Irish party would support Theresa May’s government during crucial votes in Parliament.
But the deal differs from a coalition because no DUP MPs will be included in the Cabinet.
The pact emerged after Tory chief whip Gavin Williamson flew to Belfast to meet the DUP’s Sir Jeffrey Donaldson, who is responsible for keeping his party’s 10 MPs in line.
The DUP will no doubt seek concessions from the Tories in return for their support – such as more money for the province and a role in Brexit talks. But many Tories are uncomfortable about getting into bed with a party of hardline anti-abortionists opposed to same-sex marriage. Gay Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson said there were “huge disagreements” between the DUP and the Tories. She demanded a “categoric assurance” from Mrs May that gay rights would not be affected by the deal. Tory MP Sarah Wollaston also insisted the DUP deal must not influence policies on the death penalty or abortion. And Tory MEP Charles Tannock added: “The DUP is a hardline, populist, protectionist party and a poor fit.” But Mrs May must work with the Unionists if she is to get her programme for government in the Queen’s Speech on June 19 through Parliament.