Why the silence from Stormont on a gift on behalf of NI for the Royal Wedding?

23 February 2011

Statement by TUV Leader Jim Allister:-

“As the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton fast approaches, why has there been no confirmation from Stormont that the regional government, on behalf of the people of Northern Ireland, will be presenting the couple with a wedding gift?

“Away back on 9^th December 2010 I wrote to the first Minister in these terms:-

Dear First Minister,

re: Royal Wedding

In light of the upcoming Royal wedding involving our future King, I write to seek assurance that the regional government at Stormont will be officially presenting a suitable wedding gift to the Royal couple.

I trust you will agree that such would be entirely appropriate and necessary as a mark of the affection and loyalty of Northern Ireland towards the House of Windsor.

Yours sincerely, 

James H Allister QC, TUV leader

“11 weeks later there is still no reply! Why?

“Has Sinn Fein in its bigotry blocked such an appropriate gesture at this important moment in our national life?

“It’s time we heard the truth from Stormont.

“It would be shameful if the regional government of this part of the United Kingdom did not join by way of a notable gift in celebrating the marriage of our future king.”

General