An Ulster Unionist peer has raised speculation that Labour MP Kate Hoey is interested in standing in Fermanagh South Tyrone in next month's General Election.

In response to a tweet from Alex Kane, Lord Kilclooney tweeted: "Very strong rumour that Kate Hoey MP is keen to run as a Unionist Unity Candidate in Fermanagh/Sth Tyrone but only if Tom decides not to stand. She would be a likely winner and gain the seat from Sinn Fein!"

Mrs. Hoey, who is MP for Vauxhall, delivered her final speech in the House of Commons yesterday (Tuesday) when she confirmed that she would not be seeking re-election in the constituency. 

She had previously not ruled out running as a candidate as she did not want to leave Parliament until the UK was out of the EU, with the Brexit Party heavily touted as a possible new destination.

Mrs. Hoey has been a familiar figure in Unionist circles in Fermanagh South Tyrone in recent times, visiting the border areas and meeting with DUP leader Arlene Foster, and recently attended a Remembrance event in Pettigo organised by the South East Fermanagh Foundation which was also attended by Ulster Unionist Tom Elliott and other party members.

A Unionist candidate has not been announced as yet with the DUP saying they will not run in the constituency and would give their backing to Mr. Elliott if he decided to run.

The Ulster Unionist Party have their selection convention tomorrow (Thursday) with Mr. Elliott confirming his name is in the running and that other names were also in for consideration.