THE ULSTER Unionist leader, Mr David Trimble, admitted yesterday that his party had achieved almost "all of our agenda" after the British government announced an extension of the powers of the Westminster Northern Ireland Grand Committee.
Welcoming the decision, Mr Trimble said he was pleased the government had agreed that the Grand Committee could sit in Belfast and would be able to question ministers. However, he hoped it would also be allowed to debate and pass non contentious legislation.
"We are hoping to move non contentious legislation through the Grand Committee and get away from Orders in Council. The government would, of course, be reluctant to allow legislation where it may not be sure of getting it through, but it would be a significant advance," he added.