Paisley and Trimble to discuss policing reform
Unionist leaders David Trimble and the Rev Ian Paisley have begun talks on how their parties should respond to the Government’s policing proposals.
Both parties are stressing that contact is ‘at an early stage' yet the discussions raise the possibility of a united unionist front with a view to forcing the amendment of policing reform plans.
The UUP wouldn’t confirm the agenda, but a DUP spokesperson said that implementation would be on the table: "We believe we can claw back some of the concessions on policing made to nationalists if unionists stand together and hold back on their nominations to the Policing Board."
These are the first talks between the two parties since 1997.
The DUP remain highly critical of UUP dialogue with Sinn Fein and endorsement of the Good Friday Agreement.
