Unionist peer David Trimble has told the Conservative conference that he hoped the party would have the help of the UUP at the next election.

The Tories, he claimed, will fight for every seat in the UK, including Northern Ireland, at the next General Election.

Former Ulster Unionist Leader, Lord Trimble, made the announcement at the Conservative Party conference in Birmingham at the weekend.

The Conservatives are currently engaged in discussions with the Ulster Unionists about a possible merger.

Meanwhile, in other political news, it has emerged that the NI First and Deputy First Ministers are to hold face-to-face talks in a move to break the deadlock which has prevented the NI Executive from meeting for more than three months.

The political impasse centres on Sinn Féin demands for policing and justice powers to be devolved, while the DUP still oppose the move at this time.

First Minister and DUP Leader Peter Robinson said it was vital an Executive meeting planned for Thursday goes ahead.

If it does not, it could result in the cancellation of a North South Ministerial Council meeting on Friday.

However, Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, in response, accused the DUP of failing to show "true partnership in government" and he said they had to live up to their obligations under the St Andrews Agreement.

(BMcC/KMcA)