North Antrim recall petition opens after Paisley suspension
A petition which could see a by-election held in North Antrim has opened.
The recall procedure was triggered after DUP MP Ian Paisley was suspended from the House of Commons for 30 days.
His suspension came about after his failure to register two family holidays paid for by the Sri Lankan government.
Mr Paisley had already apologised for what he said was his "unintentionalfailure" to register the hospitality, which he estimated was worth £50,000.
READ MORE: Ian Paisley suspended from Commons and DUP
If 10% of the electorate - or 7,543 people - sign the petition, then a by-election will be held.
The petition is open for signing for six weeks at designated centres in Ballymena, Ballymoney and Ballycastle.
Concerns have been raised over the decision to only open three venues.
People can also apply to sign the petition by post or proxy vote.
The recall petition is the first in UK parliamentary history.
Mr Paisley, who has been MP for the constituency since 2010, following in the footsteps of his father, has said he would stand in a by-election if one iscalled.