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Doug Beattie Quits UUP Citing 'Toxic Atmosphere'
Beattie will remain an independent unionist MLA and says party leaders fostered a centralised culture that marginalised elected representatives.
- On Sunday, former Ulster Unionist Party leader Doug Beattie resigned, citing a 'toxic atmosphere' under party leader Jon Burrows. Beattie, an Upper Bann assembly member, intends to continue serving as an independent unionist MLA.
- Beattie claimed an 'insidious campaign of rumour and gossip' regarding financial and employment issues targeted him. He alleged Burrows' decision to reopen a disciplinary matter felt like a 'deliberate and vindictive' attempt to drive him from the party.
- Alleging Burrows' leadership became 'dismissive and overly centralised,' Beattie noted MLAs felt increasingly ignored and referenced the recent resignation of Councillor Kate Evans, who worked in his constituency office.
- A UUP spokesperson said the party does 'not accept the characterisation of recent events set out in Mr Beattie's letter.' The Party Management Board had agreed on a course of action regarding his conduct before the resignation occurred.
- Despite leaving the UUP, Beattie expressed hope the party could 'rediscover its social conscience.' He remains committed to policies he shaped during his ten years as the party's Justice spokesperson.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources11
Leaning Left2Leaning Right1Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Center
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources are Center
50% Center
L 33%
C 50%
R 17%
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