Statement by TUV leader Jim Allister:

“I welcome clarification from Jeffrey Donaldson – after having being pressed on the issue more than half a dozen times – on this morning’s Nolan Show that the retention of the Full Time Reserve is a precondition before policing and justice can be devolved.

“Anyone who listened to this morning’s programme will have noticed that that was not what Mr Donaldson wanted to say.

“TUV remains resolutely opposed to any deal which would see a terrorist inclusive executive get its hands on these powers. However, it is clear that TUV pressure has the potential to force the DUP into securing a better deal for Unionism than it otherwise would have obtained.”

Note: The Stephen Nolan Show is online here.