Theresa May will stand down as an MP at the next election after 27 years as an MP, she has announced.
The former Prime Minister became the 63rd Tory MP to announce they are quitting at the next election this morning, describing the choice as a "difficult" one. In a statement, she said she will "work hard for all my constituents" until the general election.
Her decision comes amid a swathe of other Tory MPs announcing their decision to step down ahead of the next election as the Tory party battles devastating approval ratings.
The list includes former Chancellor Sajid Javid, former Environment Secretary George Eustice, Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross and former Justice Secretary Dominic Raab.
Theresa May will stand down as an MP at the next election after 27 years as an MP, she has announced
PA
The MP for Maidenhead said she decided to step down as a result of spending more time championing causes close to her heart, such as the Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking - something she said is now taking "an increasing amount" of her time.
In a statement, she said: “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve everyone in the Maidenhead constituency as the Member of Parliament for the last 27 years.
“Being an MP is about service to one’s constituents and I have always done my best to ensure that I respond to the needs of local people and the local area.
“Since stepping down as Prime Minister I have enjoyed being a backbencher again and having more time to work for my constituents and champion causes close to my heart including most recently launching a Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking.
“These causes have been taking an increasing amount of my time.
“Because of this, after much careful thought and consideration, I have realised that, looking ahead, I would no longer be able to do my job as an MP in the way I believe is right and my constituents deserve.
The MP for Maidenhead said she decided to step down as a result of spending more time championing causes close to her heart
PA
“I have therefore taken the difficult decision to stand down at the next General Election.”
She added: "I will continue to work hard for all my constituents until the General Election.
“As I pass the baton on I will be working with my successor to secure a Conservative victory in Maidenhead. I remain committed to supporting Rishi Sunak and the Government and believe that the Conservatives can win the election.
“I would like to thank all those who chose me to represent them as their Member of Parliament.
“I have always said there is no greater privilege than being an MP; I have served as Home Secretary and Prime Minister but none of that would have been possible without the people of Maidenhead and the constituency which I have been proud to call my home.”