DUP launches verbal attack on US envoy

The Democratic Unionist Party has launched a scathing verbal attack on US President George W Bush's special envoy to Ireland over his criticism of unionist politicians.

Mitchell Reiss has accused unionists of failing to show leadership during violent loyalist riots in Belfast and surrounding areas over the weekend.

The DUP's Nigel Dodds responded today by accusing Mr Reiss of making one of the most unhelpful, negative and damaging contributions he had ever heard.

He described the US politician's comments as "crass" and said he no longer had any credibility among unionists.