Donaldson solicitor confirms he will not contest election

BBC

22 May 2024 at 6:54 am·1-min read

A solicitor for Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has confirmed that the former DUP leader will not be standing in the next election.

In March, Sir Jeffrey was charged with rape and 10 other historical sex offences.

His wife, Lady Eleanor Donaldson, a co-accused in the case, faces four charges.

Their case was mentioned in court on Wednesday and is to be reviewed again on 12 June ahead of a preliminary enquiry at the start of July.

Sir Jeffrey's solicitor said: “I can indicate that it is not Jeffrey's intention of course to stand for re-election.

“He will be concentrating on the case and defending the charges.

"He is continuing as the MP [for Lagan Valley] at the present time.

"There's various matters to be dealt, constituency matters and administrative matters to do with his offices and so forth.”

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