UUP 'open to backing NI budget'

Version 0 of 1.

The Ulster Unionists are now open to backing the executive's budget, party leader Sir Reg Empey has said.

It follows the allocation of extra money by the finance minister to housing, health and the Department of Employment and Learning.

The budget is expected to be voted on by assembly members on Tuesday.

However, Sir Reg said he could not guarantee that his party would stay in Stormont until the next assembly election, due in three years.

He said: "I don't know what's around the corner, circumstances could arise.

"No political party can sign up in those circumstances.

"Nevertheless, the Ulster Unionist Party will continue to play a constructive role.

"But we are not going to be steam-rollered and we are not going to be swept aside by anybody.

"We have a proud tradition and we are going to see that upheld."