Peter Robinson was the peace process navigator in unionism – Peter Hain @BBCNolan

Nov 19, 2015, 11:39 AM

The big story this morning - Peter Robinson is standing down as First Minister and DUP leader. He has made his dramatic announcement in an interview with the Belfast Telegraph today. It will mark the end of an era when he steps aside within weeks after seven years in the high pressure job. He will also quit politics and not stand in next year's Assembly elections. But the 66-year-old denied his health was a factor in his decision, after having a heart attack earlier this year in May.

A massive decision from Peter Robinson coming a day after agreeing a deal to save power-sharing at Stormont. And ahead of the DUP's annual conference this weekend, he has suggested the DUP could split the roles of First Minister and party leader.

Peter Hain, Secretary of State during tough negotiations with Peter Robinson during the St. Andrews agreement reacts to the news.