2 MARCH 1996, Page 30

Murky politics

Sir: The Ulster Unionists may — as the Government says — have tried to secure a clandestine deal in return for their support in the Scott vote, or they may — as the Unionists themselves say — just have want- ed an assurance that no deal had been done with the DUP. It comes to much the same. What is interesting is why — even after the Government won the vote — it felt it neces- sary to put out its version of the meetings. Could it be that John Major knows that a public row between himself and David Trimble is music to the ears of Dublin and John Hume? Murky politics indeed.

Catherine Utley

111 Sugden Road, London SW11