Shaking hands all round

The success of peace negotiations in Northern Ireland will depend largely on Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble. This is why UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has devoted considerable attention to gaining Trimble's trust. Trimble is seeking a solution which would give Northern Ireland self-government within the UK. However, he would also be prepared to abandon the peace process if he feels that it would not win the approval of his supporters. Blair will find it extremely difficult to reconcile Trimble's stance with that of Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams.