Doug Beattie quits as UUP leader

Doug Beattie has stepped down as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party.

In a statement today (Monday) he said there were "Irreconcilable differences" between himself and the party.

He added: "It is now clear that some believe the momentum needed to keep the Ulster Unionist Party moving in the right direction cannot come from me. Irreconcilable differences between myself and Party Officers combined with the inability to influence and shape the party going forward means that I can no longer remain the Party Leader.

"Therefore, I shall stand down as the Party Leader and allow the party to immediately begin the process to select a new leader who may maintain the confidence of the party and continue the momentum I have started."

Mr Beattie, who took over as leader of the UUP in May 2021, said the position had put a strain on him.

"It has not been easy and at times it has been both lonely and isolating. I am no stranger to leadership and that is how it often feels in taking a toll both physically and mentally.," he said

"It also strains friendships and political relationships.".

He said the party will now "re-establish its Parliamentary Party to help increase our influence and ensure the Ulster Unionists voice, promoting a positive, optimistic, pro-union vision, is heard."

Mr Beattie said it had been an honour to lead the party and he added: "It is important to acknowledge the loyalty and support from many within the party.

"This includes the MLA group and many other elected and non-elected members. I must also acknowledge that some did not agree with the direction and path I set for the party and the vision I promoted.

"I hope they can see that in the long term only an inclusive Ulster Unionist Party, promoting a positive message, can secure our future. I hope the new leader is given the freedom to act."

In a statement on X, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Hilary Benn said: "I wish to thank Doug Beattie for the commendable leadership he has demonstrated over the past few years.

"It is clear that he has always sought to act in NI's best interests and I know he will continue to do so.

"I look forward to working closely with his successor."

Ireland's former deputy premier Simon Coveney has paid tribute to Doug Beattie, following his announcement he will step down as leader of the UUP.

Mr Coveney, who was Irish foreign affairs minister during Brexit negotiations between the UK and the EU, said: "I wish Doug Beattie well. Sorry to see him stepping back from leading the UUP.

"I always found Doug to be fair, tough when needed, reasonable and positive.

"Of course we didn't agree on everything, but Doug was someone I trusted and respected as a strong unionist leader."

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