But I also know it is changing. And the politicians need to pick it up and run with it. Dr Mowlam stressed that this feeling of change came in many ways. I have seen real political courage. And the determination to move forward in the interests of all.
Consent is there as a central and inviolable principle.
There is not going to be any change in Northern Ireland's constitutional status unless a majority here want it. But if they do want change, we'll support it. The talks require that any new arrangements have to be agreed among the parties, and have the consent of the people and of Parliament at Westminster. No one is going to be pushed or bullied or beguiled. Open and honest discussion, with all views on the table, is the only sensible and realistic way forward.