Henry Hill: SDLP link-up with Fianna Fail has a rocky start as senior MLA quits

Also: Backlash grows against SNP’s new tax; Labour AM apologises for antisemitic comment; and Scottish Tories say they’ve stopped Johnson.

Henry Hill: Trimble raises over £10,000 for legal challenge to the backstop

Also: SNP insist on leading Holyrood inquiry into Sturgeon’s handling of Salmond allegations; and Ulster Unionists call for Direct Rule in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

Stewart Jackson: Don’t pivot to the Customs Union, Prime Minister – it could destroy the Conservative Party

Breaking her promise in such a way would enrage many voters, divide her Party, and cost the nation dearly in lost Brexit opportunities.

Shanker A. Singham: Brexit – and a new strategy for a New Year

It’s time for the Government to dust down Plan A Plus and A Better Deal – rather than its own scheme, which is going nowhere.

Iain Dale: Brexit Derangement Syndrome breaks out everywhere. Adonis, Bridgen – and now, alas, Boles. Everyone’s going bonkers.

Plus: Which of Hancock’s Slags should I liaise with? I’m not known as “Uncle Herod” for nothing. And: Here’s hoping 2019 is happier than 2018.

Henry Hill: DUP MP calls for direct rule to stop unelected civil servants running Northern Ireland

Also: possible breakthrough for devoscepticism as ‘Abolish the Assembly’ projected to win seats; and Scottish Tories embroiled in EU referendum row.

Henry Hill: Unionist parties unite against backstop as Varadkar rules out fresh talks

Also: Welsh Labour choose their new leader (and First Minister) this afternoon; Scottish Tories attack SNP over tax divergence plans.

Henry Hill: DUP alliance with Brexiteers holds firm as crucial vote looms

Also: Jones accused of ‘pre-judging’ allegations against former minister as inquiry continues; and May clashes with Sturgeon over independence.

WATCH: Foster days DUP would review confidence and supply agreement if May’s deal passes

“The deal was signed to deliver on Brexit, and to do that in a way that had shared principles between the Democratic Unionist Party and the Conservative Party.”

WATCH: Foster – “We could not as Unionists support a deal that broke up the United Kingdom”

The DUP leader says that “there will be consequences” if the Prime Minister proposes one.

“The UK joined as one nation and must leave on that basis.” The DUP’s letter to May – full text

“Unlike the previous political declarations, the scope for delay, fudge or obscurantist language has passed. This is now a time for clarity and plain speaking.”

Jason Reed: The DUP’s threats are in vain. May doesn’t need them any more.

Her ability to pass any Brexit bill through the Commons will depend more on the mood in the two main parties than the Northern Irish vote.

Henry Hill: Salmond quits the SNP and takes Scottish Government to court

Also: Government accused of ‘appeasing the IRA’ over Ulster veterans; Welsh Labour leadership hopefuls in data row; and DUP urge end to Stormont boycott.

Henry Hill: DUP leadership stands by Robinson as row over border poll deepens

Also: Welsh Labour MP urged to resign equalities brief over ‘homophobic bullying’ allegations; Electoral Commission drop probe into DUP; and more.

Henry Hill: Welsh Tories investigate possible data breach over call for leadership ballot

Also: Foster attends Orange Order march in Scotland; pressure mounts on Wood as Plaid challengers break cover; Sturgeon forced to ditch new minister; and more.