Conservative leader David Cameron got a rapturous reception today at the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) conference after hailing his support for the union between Northern Ireland and Britain. Mr Cameron was keynote speaker at the UUP annual conference in Belfast to mark the decision of the two parties to form a new political alliance which will see candidates fielded in Northern Ireland on a joint ticket.
And while Mr Cameron underlined his desire to move away from the orange and green politics of the past, he overturned Conservative rhetoric of the past to insist he had a selfish and strategic interest in Northern Ireland.
"Northern Ireland has made great strides forward over the past fifteen years," he said. "The paramilitary campaigns have ended. New investment has come in. Devolution has been restored.
"For the first time in over a generation we can all look forward to a shared future underpinned by democracy and the rule of law. As Prime Minister I will always honour Britain's international obligations.
"I will continue to work closely and constructively with our nearest neighbours in the Republic of Ireland and I will always uphold the democratic wishes of people here in respect of their constitutional future."
Mr Cameron sparked applause from his audience of approximately 700-800 when he added: "But I will never be neutral when it comes to expressing my support for the Union.
"So, today, let us pledge ourselves to come together as Conservatives and Unionists in a new and dynamic political force in Northern Ireland. For the good of our parties. But, above all, for the good of the people and our United Kingdom."