General election: Naomi Long to stand for Alliance against DUP leader Gavin Robinson in East Belfast

Mrs Long will challenge interim DUP leader Gavin Robinson for the seat that he has held since 2015.

Previously Mrs Long held the seat from 2010 to 2015 after historically defeating former DUP leader Peter Robinson.

At the last general election in 2019, Mrs Long was just under 2,000 votes behind Mr Robinson.

The current Stormont justice minister described the July 4 poll as an opportunity for her party to return a number of MPs.

It is understood that she plans to remain in post as minister during the election campaign.

In a statement, Mrs Long said: “It is always an honour to be the East Belfast candidate in any election, and this time, Alliance has a real opportunity to return several MPs and send a message that as a society we are moving forward beyond traditional divides to seek the best outcomes for everyone.”

Alliance is hoping its sole current MP, Stephen Farry, will be able to defend his North Down seat, and the party is also aiming for gains in other constituencies.

Mrs Long said: “Both in East Belfast, and across Northern Ireland, we have an opportunity to choose a brighter, more positive politics, focused on growing a dynamic, sustainable economy, delivering fair funding for public services through the block grant, and ending political instability by reforming our institutions to remove vetoes.

“That's what my colleagues and I are offering voters – their votes plus our commitment adds up to a better future.

“Whilst others are already focused on constitutional fear-mongering and division, Alliance is focused on issues such as health, education, the economy, climate, and the cost of living, seeking practical and innovative ways to improve people's lives.

“If the people of East Belfast elect me as their MP on July 4, I am committed to leading that change at Westminster.”