Tensions within the Ulster Unionist Party have escalated following policy disagreements between former leader Doug Beattie and current leader Jon Burrows.

Beattie submitted an Assembly proposal to raise the minimum age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 12, despite reported instructions not to do so. Burrows maintains the age should remain at 10.

Beattie also publicly opposed the party's prior support for a clinical trial involving puberty blockers for children questioning their gender.

Burrows lacks majority support among MLAs, though he holds backing from grassroots members and party officials. Beattie faces potential deselection by his local association.

Councillor Kate Evans resigned from the party this week and now sits as an independent. Beattie has continued canvassing with Evans in Upper Bann.

The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People stated that the minimum age of criminal responsibility must be raised with no exceptions, even for serious offences.

Burrows said raising the age without exemptions would effectively legalise offences including cyberflashing and creation of deepfake material in schools.