Donaldson joins DUP race after Foster exit
THE Westminster head of the Democratic Unionist Party has entered the contest to succeed Arlene Foster as its overall leader.
Sir Jeffrey Donaldson yesterday vowed to set clear policies on key issues such as Brexit’s controversial Northern Ireland Protocol.
Grassroots DUP supporters blamed Mrs Foster for the birth of an Irish Sea border, in the form of the protocol.
The DUP Commons chief announced his leadership bid yesterday – the date viewed by many historians as 100 years since the creation of Northern Ireland.
Sir Jeffrey said: “I am convinced that in this new century, Northern Ireland’s best days are ahead.We want to build a shared future for Northern Ireland where everyone, regardless of their background, has a part to play in showing the world what we are truly capable of.
“Both making our full contribution, and enjoying the benefits, of being part of the United Kingdom.”
The LaganValley MP’s candidacy means the DUP is facing first leadership contest in its 50-year history.
Stormont’s agriculture minister Edwin Poots stood within 24 hours of Mrs Foster resigning last week following a show of no confidence in her by party figures.
She steps down as leader on May 28 and as Northern Ireland’s First Minister at the end of next month.
Sir Jeffrey, 58, is seen as a more moderate choice than Mr Poots, 55, who represents LaganValley as an Assembly member.
If he wins and also remains an MP at Westminster, he could not take on the role of First Minister.