Sir Reg Empey and the Rev Martin Smyth - are they the Ulster Unionists'
dream team?
The party certainly needs resuscitating but it's optimistic to suggest they
could do for the UUP what the Blair-Brown duo did for New Labour.
Tony and Gordon were friends when they made their pact - a huge gulf already
exists between Reg and Martin. One was until recently a leading defender of
the Agreement; the other is a staunch opponent. Not a great basis for a
coherent way forward.
This most unlikely couple would have to work hard to convince the electorate
theirs was more than a marriage of convenience. Smyth is a man of integrity
but lacks the 'wow' factor.
Empey's lengthy support for David Trimble has caused him credibility
problems with some unionists. Not having a Westminster seat - especially
when the Assembly is suspended - also weakens him.
Many unionist sources predict he won't stand anyway. "Reg wants a
coronation, not a contest," one says. Insiders reckon Jim Nicholson, Lord
Rogan, and James Cooper will remain reluctant to don their grey suits and
visit Trimble.
In that event, a stalking horse will likely run. To make an impact, the
challenger will have to surpass Jeffrey Donaldson's UUC high water-mark and
win over 45%.
None of the possible leadership candidates are causing the DUP to lose
sleep. And none, it must be said, equal Trimble in terms of ability.
David Burnside's admission, that he was too arrogant to be leader, was
refreshing. Such honesty and frankness are admirable. But his focus is on
holding South Antrim.
The lack of exciting alternatives to Trimble should be a major concern to
the UUP. Much of its talent has drifted out of politics, or into other
parties.
