Peter Mandelson, in his first Commons question time as Northern Secretary, has warned of a return to violence if the Good Friday Agreement collapsed. He told MPs that the Northern parties were working with Senator George Mitchell to review the implementation of the Agreement. Mr. Mandelson said that he remained hopeful that agreement on the way ahead could be reached.
The Mitchell review adjourned earlier today with no sign of a breakthrough on decommissioning and the formation of a devolved executive. The discussions have been taking place at the United States Ambassador's residence in London's Regent's Park. Those taking part in the discussions are continuing to observe the media gag imposed on them by Senator George Mitchell. The negotiations are expected to resume on Friday. However, it remains unclear whether the review will resume in Belfast or London.
