Menu
09/03/2015
Former UUP Leader Dies Aged 94
Former leader of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) James Molyneaux has died, aged 94.
Mr Molyneaux's political career spanned three decades.
He joined the UUP in 1946, and became one of its longest serving leaders.
Ulster Unionist Party Chairman Lord Empey has expressed his condolences to the family of Lord Molyneaux.
Lord Empey said: "Affectionately known to his senior colleagues as 'the wee man' Jim Molyneaux was never one to be carried away by the high offices he held over the years. Whether as a long serving Member of Parliament, as Party Leader or as a Member of the House of Lords, Jim was always a no frills politician.
"Having served as a Party Officer under his leadership I know of his dedication to his constituents, his ethic of hard work and his aversion to taking long holidays.
"He led the Ulster Unionist Party through some very turbulent times between 1979 and 1995 which involved widespread terrorist campaigns and great political turmoil. He was a calming influence during the Hunger Strikes, the Anglo Irish Agreement and on through to the IRA and loyalist ceasefires.
"Throughout all of this, his steady and unflappable leadership kept a safe hand on the tiller and prevented unionism falling into the traps that had been set by our traditional enemies. He never went in for the theatrical stunt or gesture, preferring instead to put forward his version of unionism through the proper and democratic channels of Parliament.
"I can pay no finer tribute than to say that Jim was a true son of Ulster and a gentleman."
(CD/IT)
Mr Molyneaux's political career spanned three decades.
He joined the UUP in 1946, and became one of its longest serving leaders.
Ulster Unionist Party Chairman Lord Empey has expressed his condolences to the family of Lord Molyneaux.
Lord Empey said: "Affectionately known to his senior colleagues as 'the wee man' Jim Molyneaux was never one to be carried away by the high offices he held over the years. Whether as a long serving Member of Parliament, as Party Leader or as a Member of the House of Lords, Jim was always a no frills politician.
"Having served as a Party Officer under his leadership I know of his dedication to his constituents, his ethic of hard work and his aversion to taking long holidays.
"He led the Ulster Unionist Party through some very turbulent times between 1979 and 1995 which involved widespread terrorist campaigns and great political turmoil. He was a calming influence during the Hunger Strikes, the Anglo Irish Agreement and on through to the IRA and loyalist ceasefires.
"Throughout all of this, his steady and unflappable leadership kept a safe hand on the tiller and prevented unionism falling into the traps that had been set by our traditional enemies. He never went in for the theatrical stunt or gesture, preferring instead to put forward his version of unionism through the proper and democratic channels of Parliament.
"I can pay no finer tribute than to say that Jim was a true son of Ulster and a gentleman."
(CD/IT)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
23 June 2003
Disarray in UUP as three MPs resign party whip
The resignation of three of the Ulster Unionist Party's MPs from the parliamentary whip earlier today was quickly follows by calls for party leader David Trimble to change party policy or resign.
Disarray in UUP as three MPs resign party whip
The resignation of three of the Ulster Unionist Party's MPs from the parliamentary whip earlier today was quickly follows by calls for party leader David Trimble to change party policy or resign.
13 July 2006
MPs briefed on Lord Levy arrest
Deputy Assistant Commissioner John Yates has told MPs this morning that the arrest of Lord Levy for questioning is not a "symbolic" gesture. Lord Levy, 61, the Labour Party's chief fundraiser, was arrested by police investigating allegations of "cash for peerages", but he was later released on bail pending further inquiries.
MPs briefed on Lord Levy arrest
Deputy Assistant Commissioner John Yates has told MPs this morning that the arrest of Lord Levy for questioning is not a "symbolic" gesture. Lord Levy, 61, the Labour Party's chief fundraiser, was arrested by police investigating allegations of "cash for peerages", but he was later released on bail pending further inquiries.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
