SDLP leader feels 'spy ring' inquiry not justified

The SDLP leader, Mark Durkan, says he doesn't believe an inquiry into allegations of an IRA "spy ring" at Stormont is justified or would serve a useful purpose.

Speaking in Belfast, Mr Durkan cautioned against an inquiry because the time wasn't right. That could change, he said, if a body of evidence was drawn together, but that "wasn't on offer at the minute".

The SDLP leader warned against what he called "feverish speculation".

Earlier today the UUP assemblyman, Michael McGimpsey, had called for a public inquiry.