Brown warning over Ulster future

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He told Assembly members in Stormont's parliament buildings they must agree a date for the devolution of policing and justice powers to show the world they have achieved political stability.

His call for devolution to be completed comes as the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and Sinn Fein are deadlocked over the issue.

"To falter now - to lose the will that has defined your progress - would be worse than a setback; it would put at risk everything that has been achieved by the work and sacrifice of the past decade and more," said Mr Brown.

"So my message to you is to have confidence. To stay the course, to continue your work and reach the final settlement."

The division between the two parties that dominate the Northern Ireland Cabinet has threatened the stability of the power-sharing administration, but Mr Brown encouraged politicians to find a way forward.

The Prime Minister said the Northern Ireland political parties should show the world that the peace and prosperity they have achieved is here to stay.

"And if you make this commitment, then we in the British Government will match your resolve and do everything within our power to support you in it.

"Because we have not only prepared the ground for the transfer, but we stand ready to help you through a smooth transition.

"We pledged in the St Andrews Agreement that we could be ready to transfer powers one year after the Assembly was elected. And we have kept that promise. So now leaders here in Northern Ireland must reach agreement between themselves and set the date for the transfer of policing and justice from the Secretary of State to a Justice Minister, in and of Northern Ireland."