Sinn Féin attacks ‘lack of leadership’ as DUP rules out Stormont return before Christmas

Earlier, a party source ruled out any deal which would restore Stormont before Christmas

Sinn Féin MLA Conor Murphy accused the DUP of a ‘complete lack of leadership’ (Liam McBurney/PA)

The British government has been urged to call time on its “endless negotiation” with the DUP after the unionist party signalled that a deal to revive Stormont would not be finalised before Christmas.

Sinn Féin MLA Conor Murphy criticised a “lack of leadership” from the DUP as political parties reconvened at Hillsborough Castle on Monday for more talks with the UK government on a financial package for the region.