Eastwood affirms allegiance to King 'under protest'

The leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party said his true allegiance was "to the people of Derry and to the people of Ireland" while being sworn in as an MP.

Colum Eastwood, who is the MP for Foyle, made the comments while taking the affirmation of allegiance to the King on the first sitting of the new Parliament on Tuesday.

MPs are required to make an oath or affirmation of allegiance to the crown and are not allowed to speak in debates, vote or receive their salary until they do so.

While being sworn in, Mr Eastwood said: “I read out this empty formula in order to represent my constituents, but it’s under protest."

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