Program: GMU
Date & Time 26.8.03
Subject UUP CRISIS

(This transcript is courtesy of the Northern Ireland Information Service)

NEWSREADER

A former Ulster Unionist Minister has dismissed speculation that David Trimble is losing support within his party and is about to be ousted as leader. Michael McGimpsey also rejected the notion the party is about to split. He was speaking as Mr Trimble began a tour of his constituency associations to brief grassroots on the state of the political process. 

MARTINA PURDY

Michael McGimpsey stood by David Trimble when he briefed grassroots members in South Belfast yesterday. He said the meeting was useful and hit out at members of the party who are criticising the initiative. Mr McGimpsey said David Trimble was in upbeat mood and denied he was about to be toppled as leader.

MICHAEL MCGIMPSEY

I don't believe that there is an alternative individual within the party who can carry this burden. I don't think anybody in the party actually desires leadership as far as the contenders are concerned and I think of course we have to wait and see, but I think as far as leadership is concerned my view is that his leadership is firm, it is secure and I think the reality is that there is no alternative and we will carry on.

MARTINA PURDY

Today at party headquarters the leader will meet his party officers who are divided over disciplinary proceedings against three rebel MPs. The meeting will decide if the matter can be brought to the party's ruling council next month. A senior party source also said moves are afoot to have the council vote on a motion of no confidence in the party officer's handling of the disciplinary proceedings which ended up in the High Court.