Title: Inside the UUP Leadership Contest: Burrows vs. Beattie

As Jon Burrows, the North Antrim assembly member, campaigns to become the next leader of the Ulster Unionist Party, scrutiny intensifies on the party’s internal dynamics. This leadership race follows the tenure of Mike Nesbitt, who has held the position since August 2024, marking his second time in the role.

Meanwhile, at Stormont, the finance minister released his spending proposals for the 2026 to 2029/30 period on Tuesday. This plan provides Stormont departments with a clear view of their potential funding allocations for the coming three years.

In other political developments, First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Deputy First Minister have emphasized the urgency of addressing hate crime. O'Neill stated that the Northern Ireland Executive must "throw everything we have" into the fight to ensure individuals feel welcomed and included. However, Gordon Lyons has dismissed allegations that there has been a failure of political leadership regarding this issue. The context for these comments includes a series of attacks on homes within a mixed housing scheme in north Belfast. Over 20 Stormont politicians have spoken to BBC News NI about the threats, physical assaults, and online abuse they have endured.

On the legislative front, members of the deaf community were present in the gallery as a minister introduced the Sign Language Bill. Additionally, Emma Little-Pengelly paid tribute to John "Paddy" Hemingway, the last surviving member of "The Few," during a speech at the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Tensions also rose between MPs and assembly members when Steve Aiken demanded an apology from Nuala McAllister after she labeled him "patronising," a request she declined. In Westminster, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch faced correction after erroneously claiming that Northern Ireland voted to leave the European Union.

Other news items include: * Paul Givan responding to criticism following his visit to a school in Israel. * Robin Swann MP noting that hundreds of constituents have contacted him regarding issues with courier Paul Givan. * Hilary Benn asserting that a government’s primary duty is to protect the nation. * The First and Deputy First Ministers reacting to the Chancellor’s Spring Statement. * BBC News NI surveying Dundonald residents on whether assembly members deserve higher pay.

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Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-06-04 13:20:33 UTC