The 61-year-old, who had led the Northern Ireland party since 2021, has been immediately replaced as leader by fellow MP Gavin Robinson.
The 61-year-old was arrested and quizzed by PSNI officers at 6am yesterday over the alleged 'non-recent sexual offences.'A 57-year-old woman has been charged with 'aiding and abetting additional offences' after being arrested at the same time.
'The party officers have this morning unanimously appointed Mr Gavin Robinson MP as the interim party leader.' Sir Jeffrey, who has had an almost 40-year career in politics, became DUP leader in June 2021 when he succeeded Edwin Poots 'A 57-year-old woman was also arrested and charged at the time for aiding and abetting additional offences.'As is usual procedure, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service.'
But Sir Jeffrey and his party ended the long dispute after agreeing a package of measures with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to pave the way for the return of devolved government. Sir Jeffrey's relationship with former UUP leader David Trimble deteriorated when he led a walkout of the 1998 peace talks after opposing the early release of republican and loyalist prisoners.He was recognised by the late Queen Elizabeth II in her 2016 Birthday Honours and was given a knighthood.Sir Jeffrey Donaldson's resignation as DUP leader comes after an almost 40-year run in politics.
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