Trimble and Mallon to meet Blair

The North's First and Deputy First Ministers are to hold key talks with the British Prime Minister in London today.

David Trimble and Seamus Mallon will discuss attempts to break the deadlock over decommissioning, police reform and demilitarisation with Tony Blair at 10 Downing St.

However, both unionist and nationalist sources are playing down speculation that a deal is imminent.

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern said last night after meeting Mr Blair that both governments are determined to make progress and he believes it could be achieved in the coming days.