Former Stormont Assembly member Mrs Pauline Armitage has resigned from the Ulster Unionist Party it emerged today.
The East Derry representative who was suspended from the party in November 2001 for refusing to support party leader Mr David Trimble, sent in her letter of resignation last week.
Mrs Armitage said she was now considering whether to join the anti-Agreement United Kingdom Unionist Party led by Mr Robert McCartney.
"I haven't decided yet I will take the summer to decide about things and will make up my mind in September. It's the only political party that would appeal to me," she said.
Mrs Armitage was suspended along with fellow anti-Agreement MLA Mr Peter Weir for refusing to support the policy of going into government with Sinn Féin.
Mrs Armitage called on Mr Trimble to consider his position as leader of the Ulster Unionist Party.
She added: "I think he would be doing the country and the cause a lot of good if he just resigned.
"If you can think for yourself and you have a political opinion you are not welcome. I don't think the UUP is a political party at the moment because people with strong political views are just not wanted."
PA