Brokenshire to set budget for Northern Ireland

Secretary of State James Brokenshire has said he will introduce legislation to set a budget for Northern Ireland after the Westminster recess.

He issued a statement on Wednesday morning, after the parties failed to reach any agreement in the talks process.

“I am, therefore, now taking forward the necessary steps that would enable a Budget Bill to be introduced at Westminster at the appropriate moment in order to protect the delivery of public services in NI," Mr Brokenshire said.

“I would expect the Budget Bill to be considered in Parliament after the short November recess, but I will be returning to Westminster to update MPs."

Mr Brokenshire added that, if there was a deal, he would be willing to withdraw the budget.

"It remains firmly in the interest of Northern Ireland to see devolved government restored," he said. "The parties can still achieve this."

The secretary of state added that he will seek “independent advice” on MLAs' pay