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DUP: our deal is with the Conservatives, not Theresa May

It’s not been a great start for the Prime Minister this morning, as the ERG and DUP have loudly voiced their concerns about her proposed Brexit deal, before she presents it to her Cabinet later today.

The PM will not be reassured by an interview with DUP spokesman, Sammy Wilson, this morning though. The unionist was first asked about what he thought about the government’s proposals. If May was hoping the DUP would wait to see the detail before passing judgement, she will be disappointed with Wilson’s reply:

‘I suspect once we get into the detail, we’ll find that that the headlines are only half the story and the detail makes this picture even worse.’

Even more worryingly for her, were his comments on the confidence and supply arrangement which gives the government its current majority, with Wilson saying:

‘All of our focus of our attention is making sure this deal doesn’t get through parliament when it comes’

And rather ominously for the Prime Minister:

‘Our [confidence and supply] deal is with the Conservative Party, not Theresa May’

Gulp.

Steerpike
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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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