The Ulster Unionist party is preparing itself for a potentially divisive debate over who will stand as its candidate in the Fermanagh-South Tyrone seat at the next British general election.

David Trimble received a boost today when UUP vice chairman James Cooper formally put his name forward for the Fermanagh/South Tyrone seat being vacated by Ken Maginnis at the next British general election.

Supporters and opponents of the Good Friday Agreement in the Ulster Unionist Party are certain to hotly contest the position of veteran MP Ken Maginnis who retires at the next election.