Robinson back in East Belfast seat

Peter Robinson: Another term in office

The deputy leader of the Democratic Unionist Party, Peter Robinson, has been returned as MP for East Belfast.

He secured a majority of 7,117 - slightly lower than his previous performance - to retain the Westminster seat he has held since 1979.

East Belfast result

Peter Robinson DUP 15,667

Tim Lemon UUP 8,550

David Alderdice AP 5,832

David Ervine PUP 3,669

Joe O'Donnell SF 1,237

Ciara Farren SDLP 888

Terry Dick CON 800

Joe Bell WP 123

Rainbow Weiss VFY 71

Following his victory, Mr Robinson said a clear voting pattern was emerging.

"The unionist community has given a verdict," he said.

"Here in Belfast, three unionists have been returned and they have all been anti-Agreement.

"It's very clear that the unionist vote is very decidedly against the Belfast Agreement."

Meanwhile, in the neighbouring constituency of Lagan Valley the sitting Ulster Unionist MP, Jeffrey Donaldson, has been returned.

Mr Donaldson secured a majority of 18,342 in a result which was largely expected.

Lagan Valley results

Jeffrey Donaldson UUP 25, 966

Seamus Close Alliance 7,624

Edwin Poots DUP 6,164

Patricia Lewsley SDLP 3,462

Paul Butler SF2,725