Northern Ireland

DUP MP backs Arlene Foster as party dismisses latest leadership speculation

Gavin Robinson backed Arlene Foster's leadership. Picture by Mark Marlow
Gavin Robinson backed Arlene Foster's leadership. Picture by Mark Marlow Gavin Robinson backed Arlene Foster's leadership. Picture by Mark Marlow

THE DUP MP earmarked by many as a future party leader has again given his support to Arlene Foster.

East Belfast MP Gavin Robinson was speaking after the latest reports of a challenge to the beleaguered Mrs Foster's leadership.

The speculation comes in the wake of a LucidTalk opinion poll that showed support for the DUP has ebbed significantly since the 2017 assembly election.

DUP sources have dismissed the reports and been similarly disparaging of claims that Edwin Poots, who is due to undergo surgery for cancer, was unhappy with a statement on Monday night saying he was temporarily stepping down as agriculture minister.

"Thanks to all for the best wishes received as I step back for some weeks for surgery and recovery," the Lagan Valley MLA tweeted yesterday.

"I do so happily in full knowledge I have overwhelmingly support from the DUP family as expressed in the party statement."

DUP Junior Minister Gordon Lyons will take on Mr Poots' responsibilities in the interim, with Foyle MLA Gary Middleton assuming the junior minister's role.

Mrs Foster said: "We give Edwin our best wishes and assure him and his family of our prayers.

"This is a temporary change, and we look forward to having Edwin back at work, having made a full recovery."

The first minister has also dismissed speculation around a leadership challenge, saying there was no “credible evidence” of a move against her.

“This is never about Arlene Foster, it’s about the DUP and it’s about leading the country to a better place and that’s what I’m focusing on,” she told UTV.

Mr Robinson, who in recent weeks has backed Mrs Foster on a number of occasions, said he remains loyal to the DUP leader.

"I'm a proud member of Arlene's team – she has my full support," he told The Irish News.