According to paramilitary and political sources, an intermediary has already approached the loyalist group.

So far there has been no meeting — but one is expected.

"They'll meet him all right," a senior paramilitary leader confidently predicted.

"I think it should be viewed positively — very positively," another source told this newspaper.

"Part of it (the discussion) would be about decommissioning," the source suggested.

The most senior UVF leader is currently out of the country, and any meeting is likely to have to wait until his return.

A Stormont source, while unable to confirm the specifics of a planned meeting with the UVF leadership, spoke of "a much more open attitude in terms of the loyalist community" and a plan to engage "with all elements of that community".

News of the talks plan comes after Secretary of State Shaun Woodward recently moved to "de-specify" the UVF and associated Red Hand Commando.