DUP 'wants unionist cooperation'

Mr Robinson is to succeed Ian Paisley as DUP leader

The next DUP leader has said he wants to talk to the UUP about greater cooperation between both parties.

Peter Robinson said the parties need to reverse the trend of low voter turnout in unionist areas.

He said: "We need to be mindful of the electoral strength of republicanism. They are getting stronger because unionist turnout is reducing.

"There is a responsibility on unionists to encourage people to come to the polling station."

Ian Paisley is to resign as DUP leader and NI first minister in June.

Mr Robinson has been his deputy for 28 years, with the exception of one short break.