Paterson must play a neutral role, says Ford

The South Antrim MLA said: "I had a productive meeting with Owen Paterson and I raised with him my fear that reckless cuts to public services will place Northern Ireland into deeper economic difficulties. To deliver sustainable growth in our economy we must build our private sector and hasty cuts to the public sector will do real damage.

"Much progress had been made in creating stability here and I hope that Owen Paterson takes a neutral approach even though his party is linked with the UUP.”

Meanwhile, SDLP Assembly Member Thomas Burns has congratulated Mr Paterson on his appointment as Secretary of State.

“The SDLP will be seeking an immediate meeting with Mr Paterson with a number of important issues on the agenda,” he said. “We will expect a full and frank discussion about the current political situation in Northern Ireland.

“The party will also be keen to explore the full extent of public spending cuts planned by his party.”