Ulster Unionist MP for South Antrim Robin Swann has expressed a mixture of support and skepticism following the delivery of today's King's Speech. While welcoming the focus on national security and the economy, the MP warned that mounting leadership pressure on the Prime Minister may hinder the delivery of the 37 announced bills.

Robin Swann MP said: "Today's King's Speech was an opportunity for the Government to deliver on the change they promised but that still is to be seen but there was much in its scope on economic growth, energy security, and national defence that I broadly welcome. The government is right to recognise that we live in an increasingly dangerous and volatile world, and the commitments on defence spending, infrastructure investment, and strengthening our trading relationships are the right areas to focus on. "The challenge, however, is still delivery. With over 37 bills announced against a backdrop of serious questions about the Prime Minister's future, following last week's disastrous local election results, one has to ask whether this is a government with the political authority and stability required to drive through such an agenda. The Prime Minister may well find himself governing on borrowed time."

Turning to the impact on Northern Ireland, the MP highlighted concerns regarding the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill. Although the legislation has been carried over into the current session, Mr Swann criticised its limited mention in the speech and its current framework.

Mr Swann added: "For Northern Ireland, the picture is one of mixed signals and continued frustration. While the Troubles Bill was carried over into this session, its near absence from the main body of the King's Speech speaks volumes about where it sits in this Government's true priorities.

"The Bill as currently framed does not adequately protect our veterans, the men and women who served bravely during the Troubles and who deserve better than to spend their final years facing investigation and prosecution nor the victims of terrorism. I will continue to press the Government on meaningful and robust protections for those veterans and victims through the amendments I have tabled to date. As ever, my priority is representing my constituents in South Antrim and standing up for the best interests of Northern Ireland."