PM should take time to get the right deal

Carla Lockhart MP • February 21, 2023

As speculation around an agreement between the Government and the European Union on the Northern Ireland Protocol continues, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has said that the Prime Minister and EU should be in no doubt that unless the seven tests set out by the DUP are met in any new agreement, then Stormont will not return.

Carla Lockhart said:

“The Prime Minister may be in a rush to seal a deal with the EU, but only the right agreement will be supported by the Democratic Unionist Party.

We have always been clear and consistent in our position. We set our the requirements of any new agreement in our seven tests. It is against these tests that we will study any text that emerges between the Government and EU. We have a mandate based on this position and we have no intention of betraying the trust of the electorate.

It is worth the Prime Minister and the EU taking the time to get the agreement right. At stake is the very foundation of our political process, the principle of cross community consent. Only by reaching an agreement that commands the agreement of all communities in Northern Ireland will the basis of power sharing be restored, and the devolved institutions restored.

We want to see such an agreement emerge. We want to restore the devolved institutions. But we will only do so if our seven tests are met.”

< Older Post

Newer Post >

DAERA Farm Investment Scheme a missed opportunity to combat rural crime

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 28, 2026

DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has urged farmers and rural communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity following a recent spate of thefts targeting farms across Northern Ireland.

Lockhart criticises DAERA plans for £2m on-farm TB biosecurity advice service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised DAERA's plans to press ahead with a multi-million pound tender for the provision of an on-farm bovine TB biosecurity advice service.

MP invites DEFRA Secretary to Upper Bann and sets out priorities for UK agri-food sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has written to newly appointed DEFRA Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, requesting a meeting and inviting her to visit Northern Ireland to hear directly from farmers, businesses and industry leaders in Upper Bann.

MP urging Prime Minister to restore confidence across UK farming sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, urging him to place agriculture and national food security at the centre of his Westminster Government's agenda.

Lockhart commends community spirit at Killicomaine Fun Day and bonfire celebrations

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit on display during a visit to the Killicomaine Fun Day, commending local volunteers and bonfire builders for their dedication in bringing the community together ahead of the Twelfth celebrations.