PM seeks "clarity" in Northern Ireland negotiations
4 January 2007
Tony Blair is "confident" the DUP and Sinn Fein both want progress in the restoration of power-sharing and will honour their commitment to the St Andrews agreement.
The PM returned from his Christmas holiday this morning and has spoken to the two party leaders, Ian Paisley and Gerry Adams.
Northern Ireland could have devolved Government by March 26 next year if all parties endorse the St agreement, finalised last year, and now presented as the Northern Ireland Bill.
Its twin pillars are power-sharing on a fair and equitable basis, and support for policing and the rule of law across the whole community.
The current dispute is over the issue of policing.
In a statement issued at lunchtime, the PM said both parties must honour their commitments and this includes "support for the police, the courts and the rule of law".
There was "no point" proceeding with the process unless there was clarity on what needed to happen, he added.
