"The Union": CDU/CSU Model

How can the UUP avoid being consumed by the Conservative Party monolith? The accusation leveled at the UUP from some quarters is that there is no way that they can maintain their history, ethos and policy if they pursue a merger with the Conservative Party. Recent comments by Jeffrey Peel of the NI Tories have been highlighted (and rightly so) to portray the Conservatives in an unflattering light simply to try and stir tension not only between the UUP and the NI Tories but within the UUP itself. Of course there is a valid argument against this, but those articulating it at times appear to be driven only by their own of sense supine loyalty. Chekov has pointed to a model that the UUP-Tories can pursue; and I also did, but in a much more subtle way (the photo)! The model to be emulated is that of the German Christian Democratic Union and their sister party in Bavaria, the Christian Socialist Union. Simply CDU/CSU for short. Very appropriately they are nicknamed "The Union".

I'm not a fan of wikipedia but here we go:

On issues of national importance and in national election campaigns the CDU and CSU closely coordinate their activities, but they remain legally and organizationally separate parties. The differences between the CDU and the somewhat more conservative CSU sometimes lead to friction between them.

On the federal level, the CSU is often perceived as the more socially conservative of the two parties. At times, especially when the CDU showed weaknesses, there has been considerable tension up to threats to break up the cooperation. Most of the time, however, they work together very closely.

My understanding is that this would be the preferred model for the Ulster Unionist Party and for obvious reasons would be of most benefit to the UUP and indeed for David Cameron's Conservative Party. This would deal with many of the obstacles that have been thrown onto the path to a merger by the detractors:

• It is accepted that Northern Ireland is a different kettle of fish from the rest of the UK. Like Bavaria, Northern Ireland is more conservative in outlook and any party wishing to succeed needs to pitch their tent in this ground.
  
• In the regional Stormont Assembly the UUP can set their own policy and at will can align it with the Conservative Party on issues that appeal. It allows scope to win elections that will be fought on localised issues. Regional autonomy.
  
• For Westminster the UUP will sign up to a Conservative manifesto. This is UK-Unionism. When there is disagreement then you negotiate for the best deal. Also if you sign up to a manifesto you are not signed up to any policy not contained within. Therefore wriggle room when in government or opposition.
  
• European Elections. Sir Reg has already outlined in his AGM speech that he intended to follow the lead of David Cameron in joining whatever conservative grouping they sought membership of. Problems may be Common Agricultural Policy. A regional opt-out may be on the cards for Northern Ireland. Again not a huge deal.
• Orangemen not welcome?! The UUP will always welcome members of the Orange Institution, this is not an issue. At least in a rational world this is not an issue.
  
• Where do the lefties go? Some of the yougov results I think will throw up some interesting figures in terms of left-right leanings.
  

The possibilities are endless and there will always be a few hurdles to negotiate along the way, and this could be both a positive and energising experience of the UUP. As you may be aware I am also somewhat of a cynic when it comes to the UUP as shown here so again it would be remiss of me not to reflect on what the UUP need to focus on:

• Talent, or lack of. The UUP does still have untapped talent within its ranks that will be essential to positioning the party as the acceptable face of Conservative unionism. New faces, fresh ideas and the 'big idea'.
  
• Style over substance. Both are needed, quantifiable results and an image to portray.
• There of course will be teething problems with the Tories - ride with it! It will happen no matter what you do.
• Please don't talk about 'Ulster Nationalism' in referring to the DUP, I cannot stand it and I think it offends more people than it works on. 'Ourselves Alone' is the new one. (Sorry couldn't help it)
• No more 'holier than thou' attitude. Burn down the ivory towers and get your hands dirty.

At times the party hacks get bogged down in the minutia, all you have to do is think big. The future is bright, the future is orange (sorry Mr Peel) - just joking. Honestly it is about the big picture and setting into motion a vision for Northern Ireland. A vision is something unionism has lacked for many years and we all need to play an active part.