As DUP leader Gavin Robinson made an apolitical speech about the appointment of a new Speaker, he referenced the Guildhall in Londonderry. SDLP leader Colum Eastwood could be heard shouting “Derry” in the background amid slightly bemused faces from other opposition MPs . Advertisement Advertisement Did you know with an ad-lite subscription to NorthernIrelandWorld, you get 70% fewer ads while viewing the news that matters to you.
The DUP’s Foyle MLA Gary Middleton said Mr Eastwood needs to calm down. “Colum Eastwood needs to grow up. That’s childish behaviour in the House of Commons .
Interrupting Gavin’s speech to make such a narrow point shows a lack of maturity. It takes a certain mentality to get that wound up about the name ‘Londonderry’. He should calm himself and focus on more constructive politics”, he said.
Mr Eastwood told MPs he is affirming allegiance to the King “under protest”.He said: “I read out this empty formula in order to represent my constituents but it’s under protest.“I do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors according to law.
“My true allegiance is to the people of Derry and to the people of Ireland.” Meanwhile, the SDLP’s East Londonderry MLA Cara Hunter reacted to a social media post showing Jim Allister in the House of Commons. She commented “we’ve just entered the sixth circle of hell”.
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