Reid confirms talks with loyalist paramilitaries

Northern Secretary John Reid has confirmed that he has held face-to-face talks with loyalist paramilitaries, despite declaring last year that the British government no longer recognises the UDA and LVF ceasefires.

Dr Reid said he has met the so-called Loyalist Commission, which includes the UDA, the UVF and the Red Hand Commandos, in an attempt to reduce sectarian loyalist violence.