Secretary of State on the deputy First Minister's resignation
James Brokenshire issued the following statement after Martin McGuinness' resignation as deputy First Minister.
Rt Hon James Brokenshire MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland:
The UK Government has a primary role in providing political stability in Northern Ireland and we will do all that we can to help the parties find a resolution in the coming days.
There is a clear process set out regarding what happens next. Unless Sinn Fein nominates a replacement to the position of deputy First Minister within the next seven days, it is incumbent upon me to call an Assembly election within a reasonable period.
I would urge Northern Ireland’s political leaders to take the necessary steps to work together to find a way forward and I will work with all parties and the Irish government to this end.