Verdict a victory for everyone’s human rights

Carla Lockhart MP • January 10, 2022

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has said the decision of the European Court announced last week in relation to the Asherscase is a victory for everyone who believes in human rights and freedom of speech and conscience.

Carla Lockhart said:


“Since 2014 this issue has been ongoing. That has been a testing time for the McArthur family, but at all times their faith and graciousness has shone through and they are to be commended for the stand they have taken. The Christian Institute and their legal teams are also to be commended for the support given to the family.


The decision by the European Court of Human Rights to unanimously throw out the appeal brought by lawyers on behalf of Gareth Lee is most welcome. The verdict of the UK Supreme Court stands, and as such the freedom of religious expression and speech is upheld for everyone. This protects people like the McArthurs, but it also protects every one of us from being forced to create something with a political slogan we fundamentally disagree with because of personal political or religious belief. 


All of us who value human rights will welcome this ruling. It enshrines religious freedom, but it also protects everyone’s freedom.”

Share

UK-EU reset agreement must deliver tangible benefits

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 26, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has noted the Westminster EFRA Committee’s 5th report on UK-EU Agri-trade, saying an SPS agreement with the EU could deliver real tangible benefits if negotiated properly. 

MP urges Chancellor to restore confidence in British farming

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 26, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart MP is calling on the Chancellor to use the upcoming Spring Budget to right the wrongs of her previous actions.

Northern Ireland Cannot Be Left Behind Under Industry and Exports Bill

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised the Government’s decision to push through the Industry and Exports Bill without accepting safeguards to ensure Northern Ireland benefits equally from increased financial support.

Lockhart Welcomes Staffing Boost for Banbridge Delivery Office Amid Ongoing Postal Delays

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has confirmed four new staff to begin work following engagement with Royal Mail over unacceptable delays. She has welcomed confirmation that four new staff members are due to commence work at Banbridge Delivery Office following her recent meeting with Royal Mail senior management regarding ongoing postal delays.

Lockhart Tables Motion Condemning Glorification of Terrorism and Demands Law Change

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has tabled a motion in Parliament condemning remarks made by Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald and calling for urgent legislative reform to prevent the glorification of convicted terrorists.

Lockhart Praises World-Leading Ulster Carpets as a Flagship Manufacturer for Northern Ireland

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Ulster Carpets following a visit to the Portadown-based, family-controlled manufacturer, describing it as a world-leading company that continues to showcase the very best of Northern Ireland industry on the global stage. With its global export success, major multi-million pound investment and 350 strong workforce at Portadown Ms Lockhart has hailed it a world leading manufacturer.

Lockhart Praises Annaghmore Crown Defenders After Successful Community Breakfast

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Annaghmore Crown Defenders Flute Band following a hugely successful community breakfast event.

Lockhart Welcomes Lisa Partridge’s Appointment to Support UDR Benevolent Fund

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the recent appointment of local woman Lisa Partridge to support and promote the work of the UDR Benevolent Fund.

Lockhart Raises Serious Concerns Over Poor Mobile Phone Coverage in Upper Bann

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns about ongoing poor mobile phone coverage across Upper Bann and is compiling evidence to present to network providers.

Lockhart Seeks Urgent Treasury Meeting Over Proposed Changes to Childminders’ Tax Allowance

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns and written to the Chancellor seeking an urgent meeting with the Treasury over HMRC proposals to remove the long-standing 10% “wear and tear” tax-free allowance for childminders who transition onto Making Tax Digital.