Reid to meet Northern parties today

The new Northern Secretary, John Reid, will meet the political parties today to have discussions over the state of the peace process.

Dr Reid has already admitted he has a lot to learn and little time in which to do it if the Good Friday Agreement is to be saved.

Sinn Fein has said the full implementation of the Agreement requires a "new beginning" to policing, while the UUP has welcomed Dr Reid's understanding of security matters.

The former Scottish Secretary brings with him to the job a reputation for making tough decisions and an ability to deal robustly with any opposition.