Ivan Lewis MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, commenting on the UUP’s decision to withdraw from the Northern Ireland Executive, said:

“Clearly, the UUP’s decision is entirely a matter for them, but there can be no doubt that Northern Ireland’s already fragile political institutions are once again hanging by a thread.

"We support the UK Government’s efforts to engage with all parties to find a way forward in the aftermath of the disturbing circumstances surrounding the murder of Kevin McGuigan. 

"We urge the UK Government to work with the Irish Government and US administration to identify confidence-building measures which can support dialogue and prevent the collapse of the institutions.”