Northern Ireland's acting First Minister has reaffirmed her support for embattled Peter Robinson, who yesterday stood down from office for six weeks.

Arlene Foster (pictured) said Mr Robinson is an "outstanding leader of unionism" and echoed her party's decision for him to remain as DUP Leader.

Mr Robinson said he would take a temporary break from the Stormont role to concentrate on clearing his name, following revelations about his MP wife Iris's financial dealings.

Mrs Foster insisted her position as head of the province's government was temporary.

"After six weeks either Peter comes back or there is a new election to the Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister," she said.

Mrs Foster called on those within the DUP, who had spoken 'off the record' to journalists voicing their concerns over Mr Robinson, to "have the courage of their convictions and come out".

"He [Mr Robinson] is not stepping down, he is just stepping aside for a short period of time to deal with very understandable issues in relation to his wife and, indeed, the one political allegation that has been made against him," she said.

Mrs Foster will also continue in her Executive role as NI Enterprise Minister.

Last night the BBC's Panorama programme reported developer Ken Campbell was still awaiting full payment of money given to Iris Robinson's former love Kirk McCambley.

Mr Campbell had written a cheque for £25,000 to Mr McCambley, who was opening a cafe business.

He claimed the owner of the Lock Keeper's Inn still owes him £5,000.

Assembly officials are investigation the conduct of both Mr Robinson and his wife, who was ousted from the DUP on Saturday.

Stormont's Committee on Standards and Privileges will look into any possible breaches of the Assembly's code of conduct.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown contracted Mrs Foster last night, and urged all MLAs to focus on the business of government.

"I urge all politicians in Northern Ireland, whatever the turbulence of recent events, to remain focused on the business of government, and to recognise the crucial importance of intensifying engagement in those issues which remain to be solved," he said.

Secretary of State Shaun Woodward confirmed three meeting had taken place between the two largest parties - Sinn Féin and the DUP - yesterday.

It is believed the talks centred on the contentious devolution of policing and justice powers to the local Executive.

Sinn Féin has said the new department should be established as soon as possible.

Democratic Unionists have remained aloof on the issuing, insisting transfer of the powers cannot take place until there is significant community confidence.

Mr Robinson said he would continue to take an active role in justice discussions. Mrs Foster also partook in the latest round of talks. More dialogue is expected to take place today.

(PR/BMcC)