On the evidence I have seen and heard, I believe that the security situation in Northern Ireland and the continuing danger of intimidation of those called for jury service, justifies the continued scheduling of offences.

Look at Northern Ireland and how long that is taking. Look at Sinai and Lebanon, and you see how difficult that is,

A more searching system is required to reflect the seriousness of the state holding someone in high-security custody without charge for as long as three months, ... I question whether what is proposed in the bill would be proof to challenge under the Human Rights Act given the length of extended detention envisaged.

I welcome this important breakthrough and congratulate the Northern Ireland leaders and the Irish Republic on reaching a genuine accommodation of mutual benefit to north and south.

A day like today is not a day for soundbites, really. But I feel the hand of history upon our shoulders. I really do.

Anyone born and bred in Northern Ireland can't be too optimistic.