Hopes of greater flexibility following PPW review

Ulster Unionist Party deputy leader Danny Kennedy has expressed hopes for movement on the issue of Personal Protection Weapons (PPWs) following a meeting with Security Minister Paul Goggins.

"I, along with party colleagues Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA Tom Elliott, Ulster Unionist Councillors' Association chairman Trevor Wilson and two former members of the UDR, met with Security Minister Paul Goggins to discuss a number of concerns over the current policing situation.

"While emphasising that the policy on PPWs was the chief constable's policy and not his, Mr Goggins said that he was holding back on making any decision on appeals as Matt Baggott is reportedly carrying out some sort of review of the situation," the Newry and Armagh MLA said.

"While I have no expectation that this will amount to a complete reversal in the Chief Constable's position, I am hopeful that it will prove a more practical approach to a worrying situation, and indeed will demonstrate more flexibility."