Major and Bruton fail to agree on fresh talks
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.SARAH HELM
Majorca
John Major met John Bruton, Ireland's Prime Minister, yesterday, for a "brainstorming" session, but the talks failed to produce any new hope of reviving the Northern Ireland peace process.
Mr Major, who met his Irish counterpart at the European mini-summit, continued to insist that Sinn Fein show a real commitment to IRA disarmament before the all-party talks could resume.
On Thursday, Gerry Adams, the Sinn Fein President, warned that the peace process was "doomed to collapse" if Britain continued to insist on the de-commissioning of arms before the republicans are able to return to the negotiating table.
The meeting between the two men was the first since their summit at Chequers was postponed earlier this month, and hopes were raised of a breakthrough.
Further discussions may take place today. Mr Major said a "series of options" were being considered. Mr Bruton said he hoped the talks would bring a "better understanding of the problems".
The Irish leader did not rule out the possibility of a summit. "If we feel a summit is useful we will decide to have one."
However, Mr Bruton refused to be drawn on dates. In a clear nudge towards Mr Major, Mr Bruton suggested that compromises were needed from "all the relevant parties."
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments