It now seems likely that any further British government statement on the RUC name change will be delayed pending Mr John Taylor's return from a visit to the Far East.
Originally expected yesterday or today, official sources indicated that any further clarification of the British government's thinking might not now come until tomorrow - after further talks with the Ulster Unionist deputy leader.
The outcome of those discussions will determine whether Mr Taylor backs his leader, Mr David Trimble, at Saturday's meeting of the Ulster Unionist Council. British sources say they are uncertain whether they can bring Mr Taylor on-side.
Unionist pressure has continued for a description "on the face" of the Police Bill describing the new force as "The Police Service of Northern Ireland (Incorporating the RUC)".