Mr Beattie said it 'would simply not be credible, or right, for me to put my name forward'.
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".
"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. Mr Beattie said that a new leader should "continue to modernise the party" and "promote a moderate, inclusive, and positive pro-union message".Mike Nesbitt is among those tipped as a possible replacement
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