SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has written to all MPs urging them to support a motion of no confidence in British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
In his letter, the Foyle MLA states:
“Dear Member of Parliament,
“The proposed date of the UK’s Withdrawal from the European Union, October 31, is fast approaching.
“As you may know, a majority of MLAs in the Northern Ireland Assembly wrote to European Council President Donald Tusk last week outlining our grave concerns about the current trajectory toward a no-deal Brexit and the impact this would have on our economy, our border and on community cohesion.
“Since then, the British Government has announced its intention to seek a prorogation of parliament that is clearly designed to thwart efforts to prevent a damaging no-deal exit.
“Setting aside the very real concerns that this subversive position marks a break with long-established norms in a functioning democracy, it is a matter of profound concern that a chaotic withdrawal that will severely damage Northern Ireland appears to be preferred British Government policy.
“An analysis carried out by the Northern Ireland Civil Service has predicted job losses in the region of 40,000 if we’re forced from the EU without a deal.
“The British government’s own analysis has predicted significant disruption to integrated supply chains across this island rendering cross-border trade in our agri-food sector virtually impossible for many operators.
“It has also warned that the open border that has underpinned our political settlement would be unsustainable within months.
“It is now clear that Boris Johnson does not understand the fragile complexities that underpin peace and prosperity in Northern Ireland.
“More worrying, however, he clearly doesn’t care. As the leader of a party that played a significant role in forging the Good Friday Agreement through difficult but courageous compromise, I am appealing to you to help protect the progress we have made.
“In these circumstances, I would urge you to back a motion of no confidence in Boris Johnson as Prime Minister.
“The British Government’s actions undermine its role as a guarantor of peace and stability in Northern Ireland.
“It should not, therefore, command the confidence of MPs.
“Yours,
“Colum Eastwood MLA
“Leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party.”
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