Before the session was adjourned, DUP deputy leader Peter Robinson asked for clarification on the position of Progressive Unionist leader David Ervine, who has joined the Ulster Unionist Party Assembly Group.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Northern Ireland | NI politicians return to Stormont

In October, his action was adjourned after "powerful" new "welfare material" was produced and the safeguarding board decided to reconsider its position.

BBC: Shannon Matthews report not to be published in full