Commenting on today’s fast moving events at Stormont, TUV Leader Jim Allister QC said:-

“I suspect that the DUP’s attempted show of unity today was choreographed to provide a soft landing for the beleaguered Mr Robinson. His immediate stepping aside as First Minister may well be a precursor to his departure as DUP Leader at a moment more of his own choosing.

“If, on the other hand, the DUP is genuinely behind Mr Robinson, then they are more out of touch with public opinion than I appreciated. The damage done to the Robinson brand is transferred to the DUP brand by such unequivocal support.”