Hermon front-runner in UUP leadership race

THE Ulster Unionist Party’s last remaining MP, Lady Sylvia Hermon, yesterday said she is considering contesting the party leadership.

The move came a day after David Trimble announced he was standing down as leader, following the UUP’s dismal defeat to the DUP in the elections. The party lost four of its five MPs, including Mr Trimble, who lost his Upper Bann seat.

Speaking to RTÉ, Lady Hermon indicated her willingness to stand. “I care for the party. I care desperately for the future of Northern Ireland so I will think carefully over the weekend,” she said. “(I will) decide at the beginning of the week what I am going to do.”

Other names being mentioned include the former deputy leader, John Taylor, now in the House of Lords, and former Executive member, Sir Reg Empey.

Sylvia Hermon’s status as the party’s sole Westminster MP has installed her as favourite. However, the leadership is decided by the Ulster Unionist Council, which has a reputation for conservatism.

Lady Hermon, who did not enjoy a good relationship with Mr Trimble, is seen as a moderate. Speaking to RTÉ yesterday, she blamed the party’s demise on Sinn Féin, which she said had shafted the UUP over decommissioning in October 2003.

Married to former RUC chief constable Sir Jack Hermon, she said her first concern was to care for her children and husband, who has Alzheimer’s disease.

Meanwhile, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern yesterday paid tribute to Mr Trimble, describing him as a “tenacious defender of the interests of Unionists”.

“The historic achievement of the Good Friday Agreement would not have been possible without him,” said Mr Ahern.

FG leader Enda Kenny and Labour leader Pat Rabbitte also paid tribute to the former UUP leader.

Said Mr Rabbitte yesterday: “While political opponents sometimes found him difficult to deal with, there was no doubt about his commitment to democratic principles.”