Edwin Poots Resigns DUP Leadership

Edwin Poots has resigned as leader of the DUP after just 21 days in office, following what has been described as an "internal party revolt".

According to reports, an urgent party meeting was held on Thursday evening after Mr Poots had proceeded with the nomination of Paul Girvan as First Minister, despite significant opposition from his own party.

It is understood that 24 of the DUPs 28 MLAs had opposed Mr Girvan's nomination and had called on Mr Poots to delay the decision.

In a statement Mr Poots said: "I have asked the Party Chairman to commence an electoral process within the Party to allow for a new leader of the Democratic Unionist Party to be elected.

"The Party has asked me to remain in post until my successor is elected.

"This has been a difficult period for the Party and the country and I have conveyed to the Chairman my determination to do everything I can to ensure both Unionism and Northern Ireland is able to move forward to a stronger place."

It is understood that Mr Girvan may remain as First Minister, despite not having the support of his party members, as he cannot be removed from the position, but must resign himself.