The political wing of the IRA -- Sinn Fein -- says its leaders will not take up an invitation to a reception in Northern Ireland this week at which Prince Charles will be guest-of-honour.

The invitation provoked anger among Protestant politicians But the British government, which invited Gerry Adams and Martin McGuiness to the reception, says the party's political representatives should be treated the same as other Northern Ireland MPs because they've signed up to the principles of non-violence.

Mr Adams and Mr McGuiness have never taken up their seats in parliament because of their refusal to swear allegiance to the Queen.