Ulster Unionist MP for South Antrim Robin Swann has welcomed elements of today's King's Speech while warning that the Government's ability to deliver its ambitious legislative programme remains in serious doubt amid mounting pressure on the Prime Minister's leadership.

Robin Swann MP said:

“Today’s King’s Speech was an opportunity for the Government to deliver on the change they promised but that still is to be seen but there was much in its scope on economic growth, energy security, and national defence that I broadly welcome. The government is right to recognise that we live in an increasingly dangerous and volatile world, and the commitments on defence spending, infrastructure investment, and strengthening our trading relationships are the right areas to focus on. The challenge, however, is still delivery. With over 37 bills announced against a backdrop of serious questions about the Prime Minister’s future, following last week’s disastrous local election results, one has to ask whether this is a government with the political authority and stability required to drive through such an agenda. The Prime Minister may well find himself governing on borrowed time.

“For Northern Ireland, the picture is one of mixed signals and continued frustration. While the Troubles Bill was carried over into this session, its near absence from the main body of the King’s Speech speaks volumes about where it sits in this Government’s true priorities. The Bill as currently framed does not adequately protect our veterans, the men and women who served bravely during the Troubles and who deserve better than to spend their final years facing investigation and prosecution nor the victims of terrorism. I will continue to press the Government on meaningful and robust protections for those veterans and victims through the amendments I have tabled to date.

"As ever, my priority is representing my constituents in South Antrim and standing up for the best interests of Northern Ireland.”