The UK’s Northern Ireland secretary has said he “will be calling an election” in the nation after a deadline to restore devolved government at Stormont passed at midnight.
Yesterday, last-ditch efforts to restore the multi-party executive failed and Northern Ireland Secretary Chris Heaton-Harris had been expected to subsequently call an election today and announce the date on which it would take place.
Speaking to broadcasters on Friday, Mr Heaton-Harris said he will provide an update on the snap Northern Ireland Assembly election next week, adding that talks with Stormont parties will continue.
There has been speculation the poll would be held on 15 December.
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The Northern Ireland secretary added that he is “deeply disappointed” to now be faced with “limited options”.
“This is a really serious situation, as of a minute past midnight last night there are no longer ministers in office in the…
