Cameron: Paisley owed gratitude for role in peace process

Ian Paisley's term as first minister helped to achieve a peace many thought would be impossible, the Conservative leader has said.

Greeting news of the DUP leader's planned departure in May, David Cameron said he had been a "formidable figure in British politics for many decades".

Mr Paisley will stand down as DUP leader and first leader. However, his 40-year political career will continue, with Mr Paisley planning to keep his seats in Westminster and Stormont.

He leaves office just a year after power-sharing was returned to the Northern Ireland assembly.

Mr Cameron said: "Mr Paisley's willingness to work closely with former opponents to build a new future for Northern Ireland has captured the world's imagination and earned him the gratitude of the people of Northern Ireland."