The entire team of Ulster Unionist Party candidates in the General Election is behind the party's manifesto, party leader Mr David Trimble insisted today.
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Mr Trimble convinced entire UUP backs its manifesto
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Mr Trimble, who launched the 20-page document in Belfast, insisted the absence of several prominent critics from the launch was more by accident than design.
Mr Trimble said: "All our candidates, all 17, have made it absolutely clear they have no difficulties with this manifesto whatsoever and will be campaigning on it."
Among those missing from the launch were Lagan Valley MP Mr Jeffrey Donaldson, Strangford candidate Mr David McNarry, Stormont junior minister Mr Dermot Nesbitt, Mr William Ross, Mr William Thompson and the Reverend Martin Smyth.
Mr Trimble reported that Mr Donaldson and Mr McNarry were unable to attend as they were unable to get back in time for the launch after submitting their nomination papers. Mr Nesbitt was in Brussels, Mr Ross was at a wedding and Mr Thompson and Mr Smyth had to attend other engagements.
He said the manifesto, which included a warning that there must be moves to address the decommissioning issue rather than bury it, reflected concern about the Belfast Agreement.
The First Minister reminded voters that the Assembly was "not secure" and needed Republicans to honour their commitment on disarmament.
Mr Trimble, who said his party hoped to make gains from the DUP in South Antrim and the UK Unionists in North Down, also hoped for a high turnout of Unionist voters, warning that had impacted on the party in the past.
"This Election is important. It matters, it matters with regard to the future," he said.
"Voters should ask themselves what way do they see the future? What party do they see delivering on their future and I think the people will come out and endorse that."
PA