Politicians from Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic met in Armagh on Friday, with potential Brexit implications on the border, free movement of people and goods, and peace funds dominating discussions. Although the DUP and Sinn Féin have been divided on the issue, and earlier this month First Minister Arlene Foster accused the Irish government of talking down Northern Ireland’s economy and attempting to “poach” investors, all sides agreed the meeting had been constructive.

Controversy and questions continued to surround the position of UDA leader and Chief Executive of Charter NI, Dee Stitt, after The Guardian newspaper revealed his claim the government does not care about Northern Ireland. He had also described the loyalist band North Down Defenders as “our homeland security”. Charter NI is a publically funded body, based in east Belfast, which advocates on behalf of community groups. Whereas Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said Mr Stitt should reconsider his position, the Arlene Foster said that although he had now become a “distraction” it would be wrong for her to intervene and call for Mr Stitt to step down.

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she would consider giving women in Northern Ireland access to NHS abortion services in Scotland without facing prohibitive costs. Answering a question in the Scottish Parliament, she said abortion should not be seen in isolation and was a fundamental part of healthcare.

Ahead of Chancellor Philip Hammond’s Autumn Statement on Wendesday, he told the BBC’s Andrew Marr the UK economy must be “watertight” to cope with “sharp” challenges ahead of Brexit. The BBC reports some in Westminster expect Mr Hammond to use this week’s statement to announce measures aimed at groups “just about managing”, by freezing fuel duty and introducing measures to encourage saving.

US President-Elect Donald Trump met with former Republican Party presidential nominee Mitt Romney, with incoming Vice-President Mike Pence confirming Mr Romney is being considered for the role of Secretary of State, among others. During the recent election campaign Mr Romney had refused to support Mr Trump for President, accusing him of accusing him of bullying, misogyny and dishonesty. In turn, Mr Trump called Mr Romney a “failed candidate” and “choke artist”.