Clinton to review Adams ban

PRESIDENT Bill Clinton is prepared to review the ban on Gerry Adams, the leader of Sinn Fein, entering the US. He told the Irish Times that a review would be carried out 'as the developing situation warrants' - a reference to the Downing Street declaration by John Major and Albert Reynolds.

A favourable response from Sinn Fein and its IRA allies to the joint statement - effectively, an end to the IRA campaign of violence - could pave the way to American entry for Mr Adams, who was banned this year following what Mr Clinton called a decision 'consistent with our immigration laws regarding terrorist activity'.

He said: 'We will, of course, keep the issue under review as the developing situation warrants, especially in the light of events flowing from the December 15 joint declaration by Prime Minister Reynolds and Prime Minister Major.'