Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows MLA has conducted a series of high-level meetings at Westminster this week, seeking to address key political and economic challenges facing Northern Ireland. During the visit, Mr Burrows met with Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch and the Opposition's Northern Ireland team to lobby for targeted economic support and constitutional clarity.

A primary focus of the discussions was a proposed reduction in VAT for the hospitality and tourism sectors. Mr Burrows argued that local businesses are under significant pressure and that a tax cut would serve as a practical measure to stimulate local economies.

Addressing constitutional and security concerns, the UUP Leader spoke on the Irish Sea border and the ongoing issues surrounding legacy. He called for the full restoration of Northern Ireland's position within the UK internal market and pressed the Secretary of State to support Unionist amendments regarding the treatment of veterans and former RUC officers.

Jon Burrows MLA said: "I came to Westminster to make the case for Northern Ireland, for every family, every business, and every community that deserves better than they are getting right now.

"With Conservative Leader Kemi Badenoch and the Opposition's Northern Ireland team, I pressed for support for a VAT reduction on hospitality and tourism. Businesses across Northern Ireland are under real pressure. This is a practical, targeted measure that could put money back into local economies and set a template for wider reform. I want to see the Opposition get behind it.

"The Irish Sea border remains unfinished business. Northern Ireland's place within the United Kingdom's internal market must be fully restored. That is not a negotiating position, it is a matter of basic constitutional principle, and it will not go away.

"On legacy, I was direct. Veterans and former RUC officers were promised fairness. That promise has not been delivered. I pressed both the Secretary of State and the Opposition to back Unionist amendments that would deliver a process that is just and balanced, not one that continues to leave those who served feeling abandoned."

Mr Burrows also raised concerns regarding the security vetting of the former Police Ombudsman, specifically in relation to the Mandelson vetting process. He questioned whether vetting was reassessed at the point of a criminal investigation, noting that previous inquiries to the First Minister, deputy First Minister, and Justice Minister had remained unanswered.

He concluded: "The Ulster Unionist Party will continue to make the case for Northern Ireland at every level."