In a statement, the DUP 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.

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

Sir Jeffrey has led the party since 2021, but has been an MP since 1997.

Prior to joining the DUP, he was part of the Ulster Unionist Party's delegation to negotiate the Good Friday Peace agreement.

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