Speculation mounts over future of UUP leader Doug Beattie
The party is expected to issue a statement on Monday.
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Speculation is mounting over the future of Doug Beattie as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party.
A statement from the party on Mr Beattie is expected to be issued before lunchtime on Monday.
The development comes amid apparent internal tensions between the leader and other senior party figures.
Mr Beattie, a decorated Army veteran, was elected UUP leader in 2021.
The Upper Bann Assembly member succeeded Steve Aiken when he resigned.
Mr Beattie, who served as a soldier for 34 years and was awarded the Military Cross for bravery in combat, took on the job promising to promote a “progressive and unifying” agenda.
The speculation over his future comes after what was a relatively positive general election result for the UUP, with the party securing a Westminster seat for the first time since 2017.
Former party leader and Stormont health minister Robin Swann defeated the DUP’s Paul Girvan to take the South Antrim seat.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.