Former DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has pleaded not guilty to 18 historical sex offences.
His wife and co-accused Lady Eleanor Donaldson, 58, of Dublinhill Road, Dromore, also pleaded not guilty to three charges at an arraignment hearing at Newry Crown Court on Tuesday.
It was their first appearance in the crown court following two previous appearances before magistrates.
A trial date was agreed for March 24 next year.
During the brief court appearance, Donaldson, 61, stood up and said “not guilty” as each charge was read to him.
He is accused of one charge of rape, four of gross indecency and 13 of indecent assault.
The charges span a time period between 1985 and 2008.
Eleanor Donaldson faces charges of aiding and abetting in connection with the alleged offences.
There was a significant police presence when Donaldson arrived at Newry courthouse.