NI elections may be delayed

Elections to the Northern Ireland Assembly may be delayed, it emerged tonight.

After the failure in Belfast to reach an outline agreement to clear the way for the restoration of the power-sharing Executive, it is understood civil servants may be forced to consider delaying the May 1 poll.

A British government spokesman tonight refused to comment on speculation about a possible delay but it is understood one is being considered because the pro agreement parties were unable to agree a deal at crucial talks at Hillsborough Castle.