Timing of UK election criticised

Unionist parties in Northern Ireland have confirmed they will meet to discuss constituency pacts ahead of the General Election.

British MP’s voted yesterday to support Prime Minister Theresa May’s plans for a snap poll.

She says it’s the only way to rid Westminster of division as the country prepares for Brexit.

It comes amid a political crisis at Stormont meaning voters there could be facing a double election if no deal is reached to save power-sharing.

Sinn Fein’s Michelle O’Neill has hit out at Mrs May’s timing.

Meanwhile Theresa May’s standing firm on not taking part in televised leaders’ debates ahead of the UK’s June’s general election.

The British PM says she’s going to campaign by discussing issues with people up and down the country instead.

But opposition leaders claim she’s running scared.

British Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn’s said he will take part.