UK Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn has ruled out a border poll on a united Ireland as there is “no evidence” the majority of people in Northern Ireland would support it. 

The newly appointed Labour Cabinet member visited Northern Ireland yesterday and spoke with First Minister Michelle O’Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly. 

He said his priority is to establish a new relationship between the UK Government and the Stormont Executive. 

Mr Benn said today he has no plans to call for a referendum on a united Ireland. 

He said the criteria for a border is “clear”. 

It's when the secretary of state – whoever he or she is at the time – comes to the view that if a border poll was held, they would vote for a united Ireland,” he said. 

“There is no evidence that that condition has been met.” 

Northern Ireland poll

According to the Good Friday Agreement, a poll among Northern Irish people on a United Ireland can be called “if at any time it appears likely to him that a majority of those voting would express a wish that Northern Ireland should cease to be part of the UK and form part of a united Ireland”. 

A survey by the Belfast Telegraph and LucidTalk found 49% of people would vote to stay in the UK in a border, compared to 39% who would vote for a united Ireland. 

The survey also found that the majority of people under 45 support a united Ireland. 

A 2023 Life and Times Survey by Ulster University also found more people expect to join the Republic of Ireland following Brexit.

Sinn Féin leaders Michelle O'Neill and Mary Lou McDonnald arrive at Meadowbank Sports Arena, Magherafelt, during the count for the 2024 General Election.

Nationalist party Sinn Féin recently became the largest Northern Irish party in Westminster following the UK general election. 

The party gained seven seats, the largest of any party in Northern Ireland – although no elected MP will take their seat. 

Mr Benn said he wants to get to work as "quickly as possible" and was happy to meet with Northern Irish leaders. 

Speaking about the legacy of the Troubles, Mr Benn said he wanted to ensure that there was "a system in place for addressing the legacy of the past". 

He said the new government was committed to the Good Friday Agreement and to "the principle of consent that is at its heart". 

Newly-elected Prime Minister Keir Starmer will visit Northern Ireland tomorrow.