SDLP questions granting of bail to former UDA leader

The SDLP has questioned a judge's decision to grant bail to a leading UDA man facing serious money-laundering charges.

Jim Gray, a former UDA "brigadier" in east Belfast, was charged after being arrested near Banbridge, Co Down, in April.

A bank draft for €10,000 (€14,750) and almost £3,000 (€4,425) in cash were allegedly found in his car.

Yesterday, Gray was freed on £15,000 (€22,123) bail and ordered not to leave the North or contact his co-accused.

SDLP spokesman Alex Atwood has questioned why he was released, given his paramilitary background and the seriousness of the charges against him.

Mr Atwood said the release sent out a bad message at a particularly sensitive time.