Hendron condemns `monumental mistake'

THE SDLP, while condemning the Canary Wharf bombing and the purported IRA statement, also criticised the British government for failing to initiate all party talks.

Dr Joe Hendron, the West Belfast MP, said it was a "monumental mistake" for the British government not to go for all party talks, irrespective of whether or not unionists participated.

He said that the "arithmetic" in the House of Commons, where the Prime Minister, Mr John Major, may have to rely on Ulster Unionist MPs to stay in power, was a factor in the British government's refusal to call substantive round table talks.

"I am saying to the Prime Minister directly that at this late stage he should come together with the Irish Government and with all the political parties, because nobody can afford this luxury and say we won't speak to each other," he added.

Notwithstanding this criticism, the ultimate responsibility for the bombing rested with those who, planted the bomb which he unreservedly condemned. "As the MP West Belfast I condemn the IRA for what they have done they are causing a lot of division and making it difficult for unionist and loyalist politicians to engage in talks."

Dr Hendron added that publicans were deeply frustrated with the relationship being established - between the Tory government and the unionist parties.

Mr Mark Durkan, the former SDLP chairman, said his party had warned that, if the peace process was not consolidated, it could be at risk.