Ulster Unionist party (UUP) health minister Robin Swann has announced he will step down from his role at Stormont once the general election campaign begins.
Swann is also the UUP candidate for Westminster in South Antrim.
In 2016, holding seats in both Westminster and Stormont was banned.
Swann had previously insisted he could continue in his health minister role while campaigning for a Westminster seat.
He served as health minister throughout the
Covid-19 pandemic and returned to the role in February 2021, the same month he confirmed his election candidacy.
The Northern Ireland Health Minister, Swann, announced his intention to run for Westminster while remaining committed to his current role.
However, he revealed he wouldn't stay until polling day due to purdah rules and party leader's decision.
His UUP party colleague, Mike Nesbitt, was appointed as Swann's private secretary, and it's uncertain if he will replace Swann, with the decision being made by party leader Doug Beattie.
A political figure expressed that it's possible his party leader is considering a rational approach regarding Westminster candidates who are currently part of the executive.
He emphasized the importance of being clear and honest about the situation, acknowledging that some executive colleagues are also running as candidates in other constituencies.