Ivan Lewis MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, speaking on the failure to reach agreement in the interparty talks, said:

“This latest failure to reach agreement will be bitterly disappointing to people in Northern Ireland.

“David Cameron’s flying visit and failure to break the political stalemate once again raises questions about the consequences of the UK Government’s lack of engagement in Northern Ireland over the past four years.

“There remains a window of opportunity before Christmas for all parties and the two Governments to find a way forward on the budget and legacy issues such as the past and parades. This will require true political leadership and a willingness to compromise on all sides.

“The consequences of failure for the stability of political institutions in Northern Ireland and public confidence in mainstream politicians cannot be overstated.”

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