Al-Sadr's statement came after what an aide described as direct talks between al-Sadr's representatives and the Iraqi government in Najaf that started Saturday night.

CNN: Al-Sadr calls off fighting, orders compliance with Iraqi security

"I am calling on the Secretary of State, Owen Paterson, to convene talks as soon as possible amongst parties here to get started on agreeing a way forward, " said Mrs Long.

BBC: We must deal with our Troubles legacy: Long