Anti-Belfast Agreement MP Mr Jeffrey Donaldson is not expected tomove against Ulster Unionist leader Mr David Trimble before histhreat to resign as Northern Ireland First Minister over IRAdecommissioning comes into effect on July 1st.
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Jeffrey Donaldson: not expected to move against UUP leader David Trimble until after his threat to resign takes effect
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Mr Donaldson is joining the UUP delegation in Downing Street today ina move being interpreted by some of Mr Trimble's critics asan attempt to stave off a possible leadership challenge when hisparty's ruling council meets in Belfast on Saturday.
One Donaldson supporter said: "At this stage a leadership challengeis looking highly unlikely but we haven't entirely ruled it out.
"A lot will depend on how today's talks go and whether there is aguarantee that Jeffrey and Roy Beggs remain on the talks delegationafter today.
"All eyes will be on David Trimble to see how he handles thesetalks and on July 1st."
South Belfast MP the Rev Martin Smyth has also been mentioned as apossible leadership contender following an attempt by him last yearto oust Mr Trimble, which attracted 43 per cent support in the UlsterUnionist council.
Anti-agreement sources today hinted that Mr Smyth may instead standfor the position of UUP president formerly occupied by Sir JosiasCunningham who died last year.
PA