Historic N.Ireland result predicted at UK local polls

LONDON AFP May5, 2022-  Local and regional elections were being held across the UK on Thursday that could prove historic in Northern Ireland and heap further pressure on embattled Prime Minister Boris Johnson. 

 
The contest for the devolved assembly in Belfast could see a pro-Irish nationalist party win for the first time in the troubled history of the British province.   

The results, expected from Friday, could have huge constitutional implications for the four-nation UK’s future, with predicted victors Sinn Fein committed to a vote on reunification with Ireland.   

Voters are electing councils in Scotland, Wales and much of England, with Johnson facing a potentially pivotal mid-term popularity test.   

Poor results could reignite simmering discontent within his ruling Conservatives about his leadership, after a string of recent scandals.