The party said it is “deeply concerned” by allegations surfacing in recent days
The DUP has announced it is commissioning an independent review into a “number of issues arising” following the conviction of former leader Jeffrey Donaldson.
Donaldson was found guilty of 18 sexual offences, including one count of rape, against two women when they were children earlier this week.
In a statement on Friday night, the party said its leadership is “deeply concerned” by allegations that have surfaced in recent days relating to inappropriate behaviour on behalf of Donaldson.
“The DUP acted swiftly when former member Jeffrey Donaldson was first charged,” they said.
“As a party we believe in the rule of law and that criminal proceedings must take their full course. Justice has been served with the guilty verdicts against him.
“The party leader Gavin Robinson, deputy leader Michelle McIlveen and party chairman are deeply concerned by allegations that have surfaced in recent days relating to inappropriate behaviour on behalf of Jeffrey Donaldson, and the indication that some may have had knowledge of inappropriate behaviour but which was never reported to the party officers.
“The party leadership have today commenced the process of commissioning a specialised and detailed independent review into a number of issues arising following the conviction of Jeffrey Donaldson and further details will be announced shortly.”
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