The leader of the British Conservative Party, Mr William Hague, began his first official visit as party leader to the North yesterday, and confirmed that the Tories would maintain a bipartisan policy on Northern Ireland.
"We have so far backed the government and as long as their actions continue to be in the interests of the people of Northern Ireland, then we will work together with the government and wish them well," he said.
Mr Hague said the current Labour government was "building on the achievements" of the Tory government in the peace process, and that both parties had "worked very hard and very honestly towards political talks".
He refused to comment on plans announced yesterday by the British government to remove internment powers, saying he would not give any judgment until he had seen the proposed legislation.
Mr Hague's first public appearance in the North was at the predominantly Catholic Rosario Youth Club on Belfast's Ormeau Road, where he was treated to displays of Irish dancing and karate. He praised the work of the club "in bringing people in the communities together" and said it was important to celebrate success.
"Everybody is aware of the problems of Northern Ireland, but a huge number of people are doing an incredible amount of positive work," Mr Hague said.
The Tory leader was accompanied by the shadow secretary of state for Northern Ireland, Mr Andrew Mackay, and his chief of staff, the former athlete, Mr Sebastian Coe.
Earlier yesterday, Mr Hague had a briefing with senior civil servants at Stormont Castle. Last night, he attended a reception at Hillsborough Castle. He will not be meeting political leaders during the two-day visit.