Doug Beattie: Military Cross holder quits as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party
Highly decorated Army veteran Doug Beattie has resigned from his role as the leader of the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP).
The Upper Bann Assembly member succeeded the Royal Navy veteran Steve Aiken in 2021 and has cited "irreconcilable differences" between him and party officers behind his shock resignation after a relatively positive general election result for his party in July which saw them secure a Westminster seat.
Mr Beattie served as a soldier for 34 years and was awarded the Military Cross – the third-highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy – for his actions in fierce fighting over several days in September 2006 in Afghanistan.
Mr Beattie was born on an Army base in Hampshire in 1965, where his father served in the Royal Ulster Rifles.
He was commissioned in 2005 as an officer at the rank of captain and served three tours of duty in Afghanistan. Mr Beattie has written two books about his experiences.
Mr Beattie got into politics following his retirement from the Army, joining the UUP, and was elected as a councillor in 2014 before winning a seat in Upper Bann two years later.
A few months after gaining his role as the leader of the UUP he faced scrutiny for the language he used in historical tweets – he later apologised profusely, denying he was a racist or a misogynist.
Senior political figures paid tribute to his leadership and constructive approach to relations with other parties after his resignation.
Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn thanked Mr Beattie for his "commendable leadership".
In a statement, Mr Benn said: "It is clear that he has always sought to act in NI's best interests and I know he will continue to do so."
DUP leader Gavin Robinson said that while he differed from Mr Beattie on tactics, there was "no doubt that Doug is a committed Unionist".
Northern Ireland's First Minister Michelle O'Neill wished Mr Beattie and his family well following his resignation announcement.
Irish premier Simon Harris also expressed well wishes to Mr Beattie in a social media post.
He said: "I would like to wish Doug Beattie and his family well as he steps down as UUP leader.
"Doug has been a responsible and constructive leader in Northern Ireland during times of great challenge in recent years.
"On a personal level, I have always found him to be engaging and decent."
Irish deputy premier Micheál Martin said Mr Beattie led his party through "numerous challenges".
Mr Martin said: "I've always appreciated his emphasis on making politics work and the constructive relationship we built.
"I know he will continue to lead by example whatever the future holds."
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