Ulster Unionist Party representatives have called on the UK Government to cover the full cost of policing the recent disorder across Northern Ireland. The demand was made during a meeting on Thursday with Secretary of State Hillary Benn.

The delegation included party leader Jon Burrows MLA, North Antrim MP Robin Swann and South Antrim MLA Steve Aiken. The discussions were prompted by an attack on Stephen Ogilvie in North Belfast, which was followed by several nights of unrest in multiple areas.

The UUP pressed for full cost recovery for the Police Service of Northern Ireland operation dealing with the disorder. Mr Burrows noted that the PSNI budget has been reduced in successive years and said current demands are straining resources. The Secretary of State agreed to examine the request.

Immigration enforcement and the operation of the Common Travel Area were also discussed. The UUP expressed concern that border checks are not being carried out to the required standard and argued that illegal immigration needs a more urgent government response. The party stressed the importance of distinguishing between legal and illegal immigration in public debate.

Mr Burrows passed on contact details for Mr Ogilvie's father to the Secretary of State, with the family's permission, to allow direct contact at this difficult time.

The meeting also addressed broader public finance issues. The UUP highlighted the ongoing absence of a budget settlement for Northern Ireland that reflects local need. In addition, the party raised legacy matters, specifically the historic use by the IRA of Irish industrial explosives. The delegation sought assurances that investigations into how commercial explosives were obtained by paramilitaries will continue. Mr Burrows welcomed that the Secretary of State is actively looking into these matters.

Political leaders continue to appeal for calm after the disorder, amid concerns about community tensions and the strain on police resources.