Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has left the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). Lockhart had called for the DUP to remove First Minister Michelle O'Neill from office by having Emma Little-Pengelly resign from her role as deputy first minister.However, the DUP confirmed that Little-Pengelly would not participate in joint engagements with O'Neill and permission would not be granted for the first minister to operate on a solo basis.It follows unionist anger over Sinn Féin's involvement in protests which prevented a contentious Orange Order parade in Portadown, County Armagh, from passing along the mainly nationalist Garvaghy Road.In a letter posted on her X account, Lockhart said it was "a difficult and deeply personal decision"."The party has chosen its approach, as is its right.
I must now act according to my convictions," she wrote.This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh the page for the fullest version.You can receive Breaking News on a smartphone or tablet via the BBC News App.
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