Jeffrey Donaldson resigns as DUP leader after being charged with historical sexual offences

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has resigned as leader of the Democratic Unionist Party – the party said its officers received a letter from the Lagan Valley MP “confirming that he has been charged with allegations of an historical nature”.
By David Thompson
Published 29th Mar 2024, 13:07 BST
Updated 29th Mar 2024, 17:32 BST
The DUP says its Chairman "has received a letter from Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP confirming that he has been charged with allegations of an historical nature and indicating that he is stepping down as Leader of the Democratic Unionist Party with immediate effect". Photo: Jonathan Porter / Press EyeThe DUP says its Chairman "has received a letter from Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP confirming that he has been charged with allegations of an historical nature and indicating that he is stepping down as Leader of the Democratic Unionist Party with immediate effect". Photo: Jonathan Porter / Press Eye
The DUP says its Chairman "has received a letter from Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP confirming that he has been charged with allegations of an historical nature and indicating that he is stepping down as Leader of the Democratic Unionist Party with immediate effect". Photo: Jonathan Porter / Press Eye

A statement from the party said: “The Party Chairman has received a letter from Sir Jeffrey Donaldson MP confirming that he has been charged with allegations of an historical nature and indicating that he is stepping down as Leader of the Democratic Unionist Party with immediate effect.

“In accordance with the Party Rules, the Party Officers have suspended Mr Donaldson from membership, pending the outcome of a judicial process.

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“The Party Officers have this morning unanimously appointed Mr Gavin Robinson MP as the Interim Party Leader”.

The PSNI said this morning that “Detectives from the Police Service of Northern Ireland arrested and charged a 61-year-old man for non-recent sexual offences. A 57-year-old woman was also arrested and charged at the time for aiding and abetting additional offences.

“Both are due to appear before Newry Magistrates Court on 24 April.

“As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service”.

Related topics:Jeffrey DonaldsonDUP