Michael Gove and Andrea Leadsom to step down as MPs at general election

Housing Secretary Michael Gove and former business secretary Andrea Leadsom have decided not to run in the upcoming general election. Mr. Gove, who has been a Conservative Party MP for Surrey Heath for nearly 20 years and served in various cabinets over the past 14 years, believes it's time for a new generation to take the lead. He expressed his gratitude for the privilege of being an MP and minister in a letter to his constituency chairman. On the other hand, Ms. Leadsom, who has been an MP for South Northamptonshire for 14 years, stated in her resignation letter that serving the people has been a great honor for her. The decision of both Gove and Leadsom to step down adds to the growing number of Conservative MPs leaving Parliament. Mr. Gove, who held several important roles in the government, mentioned that serving the country has been the greatest honor of his life. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he had to contribute to the country's governance. In response to Gove's resignation, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak praised his transformative impact on the government's agenda and thanked him for his service and support. The departure of Gove and Leadsom is part of a larger trend of Conservative MPs choosing not to run for re-election. The total number of sitting Tories who have announced they will not stand again has reached a record-breaking 78, surpassing the previous record set in 1997. This exodus of MPs reflects a sense of change within the party and a shift towards new leadership. The decision of these MPs to step down comes amidst a challenging political landscape and the anticipation of a general election loss for the Conservative Party. Overall, the resignations of Michael Gove and Andrea Leadsom mark a significant moment in British politics, signaling a transition towards a new generation of leaders within the Conservative Party. Their departure, along with that of other MPs, reflects the evolving dynamics and challenges facing the political landscape in the United Kingdom.