Ford offered peerage - allegation

David Ford was interviewed by police

Alliance leader David Ford has revealed he was interviewed by police about an alleged offer of a peerage before the last Westminster elections.

In 2005 Mr Ford claimed the then Ulster Unionist leader David Trimble told him he could get a peerage if his party stood aside in four constituencies.

At the time, Lord Trimble said such appointments were made not by him, but by the government.

Mr Ford was speaking on the BBC Inside Politics programme.

He was asked if he has been drawn into the latest probe into Downing Street's role in handing out honours.

"I was talked to by the police about those specific allegations some time ago," he said.

"As far as I am concerned there are all kinds of political questions to be asked, but there was no legal question which really involved the police."