Education minister 'threw tantrum'

War of words erupted at Stormont meeting

Northern Ireland's education minister has been accused of "throwing a tantrum" at a meeting of his assembly committee on Thursday.

The DUP's Sammy Wilson claimed Martin McGuinness thumped the table and used strong language when pressed about his school spending plans.

Mr McGuinness insisted any allegation of unministerial conduct was absolutely untrue.

Both politicians traded insults at the Education Committee meeting at Stormont.

Martin McGuinness rejected 'bias' allegations

It is understood the minister was accused of failing to apply fairness in his schools investment programme - an allegation he forcefully rejected.

Mr McGuinness insisted his programme was based on need and did not favour any community.

As the closed session descended into a slanging match, the minister accused Mr Wilson of being a sectarian bigot.

In turn, the Mr Wilson called the minister a terrorist.

Speaking afterwards, Mr Wilson claimed Mr McGuinness went on the offensive to avoid answering awkward questions.

He described his behaviour as "inept and embarrassing".