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03/01/2013
McGuinness Awarded British Title
Martin McGuinness has been awarded a British aristocratic title following his resignation as a Westminster MP.
The deputy First Minister and former IRA member was awarded the title of Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead according to British parliamentary protocol.
The job has no actual responsibilities and is unpaid, but the only way to resign as an MP is to accept an office of profit under the Crown.
The 62-year-old Sinn Féin politician has adopted a policy of abstention from Westminster, in line with the rest of his party, since elected as MP for Mid-Ulster in 1997
In a statement, the Treasury said: "The Chancellor of the Exchequer has this day appointed James Martin Pacelli McGuinness to be Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead."
Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams had a similar title conferred on him after his resignation as MP for West Belfast.
A spokesman for Sinn Féin said: "As Irish republicans we gave no time for antiquated and ridiculous titles of the British parliamentary system then and this remains the situation.
"What we need to see now is the writ being moved for a by-election to allow the people of Mid-Ulster to have their say."
Mr McGuinness’s decision to stand down is in line with Sinn Féin’s commitment to end double-jobbing.
He will now concentrate on his role as Stormont MLA and Deputy First Minister.
(IT/GK)
The deputy First Minister and former IRA member was awarded the title of Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead according to British parliamentary protocol.
The job has no actual responsibilities and is unpaid, but the only way to resign as an MP is to accept an office of profit under the Crown.
The 62-year-old Sinn Féin politician has adopted a policy of abstention from Westminster, in line with the rest of his party, since elected as MP for Mid-Ulster in 1997
In a statement, the Treasury said: "The Chancellor of the Exchequer has this day appointed James Martin Pacelli McGuinness to be Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead."
Sinn Féin president Gerry Adams had a similar title conferred on him after his resignation as MP for West Belfast.
A spokesman for Sinn Féin said: "As Irish republicans we gave no time for antiquated and ridiculous titles of the British parliamentary system then and this remains the situation.
"What we need to see now is the writ being moved for a by-election to allow the people of Mid-Ulster to have their say."
Mr McGuinness’s decision to stand down is in line with Sinn Féin’s commitment to end double-jobbing.
He will now concentrate on his role as Stormont MLA and Deputy First Minister.
(IT/GK)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A fine end to the day with some evening sunshine. It remains mainly dry overnight with a touch of frost or fog patches possible in places. However, cloud is expected to increase towards dawn with the odd light shower. Minimum temperature 2 °C.
