Beattie rules himself out of UUP leadership race

Doug Beattie has said that he will not run for re-election as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP).

Mr Beattie announced his resignation as leader on Monday, citing "irreconcilable differences" with party officers.

Nominations for his replacement have opened, with a new leader expected to be in place by 14 September.

Party members have been asked not to speak to the media about the matter.

In a statement, Mr Beattie said it "would simply not be credible, or right, for me to put my name forward to be re-elected as the party leader".

He said that during his time as leader he had accepted responsibility for his "failings," adding that he expected "others to do similar".

"I must accept that while a large number would like me to stay as leader there is an equal number that may not," he added.

He said that resigning was "one of the hardest decisions I have made" but added that "for the good of the party I had no choice but to step down".

Mr Beattie said that a new leader should "continue to modernise the party" and "promote a moderate, inclusive, and positive pro-union message".

He said such a new leader would have his full support and loyalty.

BBC News NI has seen correspondence from the UUP party chair to all members disputing Mr Beattie's claim that he resigned due to "irreconcilable differences" with party officers.

In the message, Jill Macauley said that was "not the case" and that party officers had "worked hard to seek a positive outcome", but that it was not possible.

She said Mr Beattie's resignation was unforced and that party leaders "did not request it".

Mrs Macauley went on to say that party officers were "committed to moving forward with optimism under new leadership".

She criticised what she called the "disloyal behaviour of a small number of misinformed and self-serving individuals" and asked members to "avoid speculation and resist attempts by some to damage the party".

"The focus must now be on the selection of a new leader who can take forward our positive agenda," she added.

Among those who could replace Mr Beattie is former leader and current Health Minister Mike Nesbitt.

Deputy leader Robbie Butler and East Antrim assembly John Stewart have also been mentioned by some party sources as possible contenders.

The UUP has not had a contest for the leadership since 2012, when Mr Nesbitt beat John McCallister for it.

Since then, subsequent leaders have been selected by the party unopposed.

Nominations for the position are due to close next Friday at 16:30 BST with an extraordinary meeting to be held on 14 September to ratify or elect the new leader.