New Prime Minister - Northern Ireland 1969

O'Neill Out, Chichester-Clark In

Despite the moderate success of having "one man, one vote" passed, Captain O'Neill's position as prime minister and leader of the Unionist Party continued to deteriorate. The resignation of Major Chichester-Clark over the franchise issue and the continued division within the parliamentary party finally led Captain O'Neill to resign. Brian Faulkner and Major James Chichester-Clark, both former ministers under O'Neill, were nominated for the leadership. Chichester-Clark won by one vote and became both prime minister and leader of the Unionist Party.

O'Neill Downfall Seen As Inevitable

Following the local government franchise vote, Captain O'Neill's position as leader of his party and prime minister is looking increasingly weak. Sean Duignan reports on O'Neill's predicament and the division within the Unionist Party.

O'Neill Resigns

Ronnie Turner reports on reaction to the news that Captain O'Neill is to step down as leader of the Unionist Party. O'Neill has also announced that, as soon as a new leader is elected, he will resign the premiership as well after six years in this role. He claims to have made his decision at the weekend.

"Wherever Our Source Of Hope Lies, It Certainly Doesn't Lie In The Unionist Party"

John Hume does not see that the replacing of Captain O'Neill will offer any hope to the civil rights movement.

Faulkner and Chichester-Clark For Leadership

Sean Duignan reports on the nominations for leader of the Unionist Party. Brian Faulkner and Major Chichester-Clark are both running. On the night before the election, right-wing Unionist William Craig addresses supporters on the future of the Unionist Party. He is critical of the civil rights movement and their "chanting of that silly song". He also has words for newly-elected Westminster MP Bernadette Devlin, calling her "that little hussy from Mid Ulster".

Chichester-Clark Ambitions For Leadership

Major James Chichester-Clark talks about his ambition to prove to the Northern Ireland community that he is capable of being their prime minister. He also acknowledges that he will need to build a relationship with the British government at Westminster.

"Policies Of Much Greater Importance Than Personalities"

Brian Faulkner talks about how he would lessen tension in Northern Ireland if elected prime minister and his intention to carry on the reform measures commenced under Captain O'Neill.

Chichester-Clark, New Prime Minister

Chief whip of the Unionist Party, Roy Bradford, announces the leadership result, which sees Major Chichester-Clark defeat Brian Faulkner by a single vote.

New Leader, First Press Conference

Following his election victory, Major Chichester-Clark answers questions from a large media gathering.

Captain O'Neill Departs

Following the leadership election, Captain O'Neill leaves Stormont but says he will be staying in politics.

"The Party Is Now Fully United"

William Craig says he will give his full support to the new leader and does not rule out a place in the cabinet, should it be offered.

Reaction From Derry On Chichester-Clark

Barry Linnane seeks the views of Catholics and Protestants on the election of their new prime minister. Neither side of the divide seems enthused by the appointment.