KATHMANDU: British Prime Minister's Special Representative for Peace building Jack McConnell, who was on a three-day visit to Nepal, today said revision of the May 28 constitution promulgation deadline could be considered if political parties find the deadline unrealistic.

Prior to his departure for the UK, Dr McConnell said, "I have had a series of meetings with key political actors. It is clear that further efforts are needed to resolve issues related to former Maoist combatants and write the constitution within stipulated time. If May 28 is an unrealistic deadline, thought should be given to extending it sooner rather than later."

Dr McConnell was of the view that his visit made him realise what importance peace holds for the poor people of Nepal and how peace can bring a host of opportunities to them. "If the peace process can be concluded, I am certain that more development will follow," a British Embassy press release quoted Dr McConnell as saying.

During his visit, McConnell met civil society members, key political leaders and international donors. Delivering a letter from British Prime Minister Gordon Brown to Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal, Dr McConnell urged him to seek common ground.

Quoting Dr McConnell, the press release added, "At this historic moment, it is crucial that the government of Nepal is flexible enough to resolve differences with other parties so that a new democratic constitution can be delivered to the people. Without progress on peace, development will be delayed."

Dr McConnell also emphasised how Nepal should make good use of international support, in particular through UNMIN and OHCHR.

At a meeting with UCPN-Maoist Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda', Dr McConnell stressed that all parties should demonstrate seriousness about the peace process, build trust among each other, engage in plans for rehabilitation and integration of the Maoist combatants and support democratic norms and freedom in the new constitution. He also called for an end to political violence.

At a meeting with Minister for Peace and Reconstruction Rakam Chemjong, Dr McConnell dwelt on the priorities of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Disappearance Commission bills.

He also participated in a function organised to pay tributes to late Girija Prasad Koirala at the Pashupatinath

Temple.