Arlene Foster to meet Theresa May for talks on Tuesday
Arlene Foster is set to meet with Theresa May for talks on Tuesday over a potential deal between the DUP and the Conservative Government.
Last updated 11th Jun 2017
It comes after confusion on Saturday night over whether a deal had been reached between the two parties.
In a statement issued by 10 Downing Street, the Prime Minister indicated that a "confidence and supply" deal had been reached with the DUP, only to have to row back that claim about an hour later.
The deal would be much looser than a formal coalition.
The unionist party issued its own statement, clarifying that negotiations around reaching a way forward were still continuing.
"The DUP on Saturday held discussions with representatives of the Conservative Party in line with Arlene Foster's commitment to explore how we might bring stability to the nation at this time of great challenge. The talks so far have been positive," it read.
"Discussions will continue next week to work on the details and to reach agreement on arrangements for the new Parliament."
After their earlier statement suggested a form of agreement had been reached, Downing Street later issued a statement that said it would "welcome any such deal being agreed''.
"The Prime Minister has tonight spoken with the DUP to discuss finalising a confidence and supply deal when Parliament returns next week,'' a No 10 spokeswoman said.
"We will welcome any such deal being agreed, as it will provide the stability and certainty the whole country requires as we embark on Brexit and beyond.
"As and when details are finalised both parties will put them forward.''
The potential deal with the DUP came after Mrs May sent her Chief Whip Gavin Williamson to Belfast for talks after the election left the Tories eight seats short of the 326 required for a majority.
Theresa May also spoke to the Taoiseach Enda Kenny on Sunday over the phone, a Downing Street spokesperson said.
“Prime Minister Theresa May spoke on the phone to Taoiseach Enda Kenny today. The Prime Minister explained that she is working towards a confidence and supply deal with the DUP which would provide stability and certainty for the UK going forward," a statement read.
“They confirmed their joint commitment to restoring a Northern Ireland Executive as soon as possible and agreed that both countries would continue to engage closely to bring about political stability in Northern Ireland.
"The Prime Minister reiterated that the Government’s approach and objectives in the forthcoming talks to re-establish the Northern Ireland Executive remained unchanged.
“The two leaders spoke about their willingness to continue close cooperation as the UK embarks on leaving the European Union, with no return to a hard border.
“The Prime Minister thanked Mr Kenny for helping to make UK-Ireland relations stronger than ever, wished him well for the future and said she looked forward to continuing a close relationship with his successor.”