Unionists to discuss paramilitary links
The Progressive Unionist Party (PUP) is expected to discuss its links with the Ulster Volunteer Force at its annual party conference today.
The party, led by David Ervine, has refused to comment on speculation it could end its connection with the paramilitary group if it fails to leave violence behind.
The Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) has been linked to at least four deaths in its feud with the Loyalist Volunteer Force.
In an unusual move, no reporters have been allowed to attend the conference.
The Progressive Unionist Party (PUP)’s allowances for the Northern Ireland assembly have been suspended because the British government has decided it is not doing enough to curb paramilitary violence by the UVF.
The Northern Ireland Secretary of State Peter Hain is still deciding whether to continue the suspension of the party’s Assembly allowance.
The PUP has said it will not be commenting on the discussions at its conference.
