I travelled yesterday to Belfast East, where I spoke with Conservatives from across Northern Ireland who are working to normalise politics, diffusing and moving beyond sectarianism:
I learned and saw far more than I can share today but my overwhelming impression was of a great people who have been hamstrung by violence, sectarianism and the growth of the state. Taken together, the result has been the destruction of great industries and the conversion of prosperity based on production into dependency. That is the lesson we must all learn: live in peace and produce what others value.
There is much to be done to bring positive change to the entire UK, but Northern Ireland is a part within it which requires our help. I am thankful that Northern Ireland Conservatives have such determination, spirit, kindness and insight. I wish them every success.
