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22/09/2010
Defeated Unionists To Select Leader
The Ulster Unionist Party membership is meeting on Wednesday to select a new leader.
It follows the resignation of Sir Reg Empey after the party's disastrous showing in the last general election in May - but last minute moves are taking place to halt a potentially divisive voting split.
There are two contenders - Lagan Valley MLA Basil McCrea (pictured) and Tom Elliott, the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA. The selection meeting is scheduled to take place at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast this evening.
But, last-ditch efforts are being made to explore whether tonight's Ulster Unionist leadership vote can be avoided.
Several senior UUP sources in both men's camps have told the Belfast News Letter that a meeting took place on Monday night and another was held on Tuesday.
It is understood that discussions took place as to whether either candidate would be content to be deputy leader.
However, last night both men attempted to put the divisive leadership campaign behind them.
However, Mr Elliott is the clear favourite if tonight's vote goes ahead.
(BMcC/GK)
It follows the resignation of Sir Reg Empey after the party's disastrous showing in the last general election in May - but last minute moves are taking place to halt a potentially divisive voting split.
There are two contenders - Lagan Valley MLA Basil McCrea (pictured) and Tom Elliott, the Fermanagh and South Tyrone MLA. The selection meeting is scheduled to take place at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast this evening.
But, last-ditch efforts are being made to explore whether tonight's Ulster Unionist leadership vote can be avoided.
Several senior UUP sources in both men's camps have told the Belfast News Letter that a meeting took place on Monday night and another was held on Tuesday.
It is understood that discussions took place as to whether either candidate would be content to be deputy leader.
However, last night both men attempted to put the divisive leadership campaign behind them.
However, Mr Elliott is the clear favourite if tonight's vote goes ahead.
(BMcC/GK)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:Rain clearing away east by early evening with some clear spells but a few showers likely to affect the North coast and other areas towards dawn, remaining breezy and mild overnight. Minimum temperature 9 °C.
