Reid sends loyalist Smith back to jail

Northern Secretary John Reid has announced he is to return a loyalist ex-prisoner to jail.

Gary Smith, from Belfast's Shankill Road, is an associate of UDA commander Johnny Adair, who is also behind bars since his early release licence was revoked.

Dr Reid said he had made his decision after receiving a report from the RUC Chief Constable.

Adair, a former commander of the so-called Ulster Freedom Fighters (UFF) was re-arrested last August at the height of a bloody feud with the rival Ulster Volunteer Force (UVF) in north and west Belfast which left a number of men dead on both sides.

But even though he is behind bars, he retains a powerful influence on the streets. Smith was more or less his No 2, according to security sources.

No details were given today about his activities since his release from jail, but the Secretary of State said he was satisfied Smith had breached the terms of his licence.

Dr Reid added: ‘‘I have always said that I would not hesitate to act on the advice of the police, and I will do so again if need be.’’