Ulster Unionist Party Deputy Leader Diana Armstrong and Chairman Lord Elliott have both expressed continued backing for party leader Jon Burrows after former leader Doug Beattie resigned from the party.

Beattie announced his resignation on Sunday in a letter to Burrows. He alleged relationships had deteriorated between the party management board, constituency associations, the councillors' association, and the Stormont MLA group. He also claimed MLAs were being marginalised and that Burrows' leadership was overly centralised and dismissive.

On the BBC, Burrows said he was deeply disappointed by Beattie's comments and did not recognise the characterisation of him.

Armstrong, who represents Fermanagh and South Tyrone, said she was disappointed by the resignation but was focused on working alongside Burrows. She noted Beattie had acknowledged on the BBC being dishonest with the public about who was canvassing with him, and stressed that honesty is essential in public life.

Lord Elliott said Burrows is well liked within the party and that he fully supports his leadership. He described Beattie as a respected former soldier and expressed disappointment at some of the public remarks, which he largely disagreed with.

Elliott accepted that such disputes can harm the party's image but said there is much work to be done and that volunteers and elected representatives remain dedicated.