LONDON, Feb 9 — Britain’s Northern Ireland Minister announced today a further delay to holding fresh elections in the region until next year, saying it was not the best course of action to restore a functioning government.

"Having spoken to political representatives, businesses and communities in Northern Ireland, I have concluded that another election at this time is not the best course of action to facilitate the restoration of the Executive,” Chris Heaton-Harris said in a statement.

He introduced a bill to extend the deadline for forming an executive until Jan. 19, 2024. — Reuters