Theresa May has called for fresh talks between the Northern Ireland parties to end the deadlock over power-sharing at Stormont.
Sinn Fein’s leadership team leave Downing Street following talks with the PM (Dominic Lipinski/PA)
Following talks in Downing Street with the leaders of the Democratic Unionists and Sinn Fein, she said she believed the differences between them were small and could be resolved.
She said both parties had reiterated their commitment to the restoration of devolution following the collapse of power-sharing in January.
DUP leader Arlene Foster outside Number 10 (Dominic Lipinski/PA)
“I believe that the differences between the parties, the issues that are still dividing them, are very small,” she said.
“I am not underestimating the challenges that lie ahead but I believe that a way forward can be found so agreement can be reached.
“I believe it is imperative the parties come back together next week for talks and that we resolve these differences.”