In a series of unexpected announcements, Michael Gove and Andrea Leadsom, two prominent Conservative politicians, have decided to stand down at the upcoming general election. Gove, a former education secretary, justice secretary, environment secretary, and chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, made his announcement in a letter on Twitter. He expressed his pride in serving under four prime ministers and leading various campaigns but acknowledged it was time for a new generation to lead.
Leadsom, who reached the final two of the 2016 Conservative leadership contest but withdrew, also announced her decision not to stand as a candidate in a letter to Rishi Sunak. The total number of sitting Tories not standing again has now reached an unprecedented 78, surpassing the previous record of 72 from 1997.
The sudden announcement of a July 4 election by Rishi Sunak prompted many Conservatives to make their decisions. Other notable figures include Greg Clark and John Redwood, who have also announced their resignations. The Liberal Democrats are posing a significant challenge in several constituencies, including Surrey Heath where Gove is standing down.
Gove gained a reputation as a zealous reformer during his time as education secretary and campaigned strongly for Britain to quit the EU in 2016. His decision not to stand again may be seen as another blow to the Tories' chances in the election.
The Parliament has been prorogued, and business has ended for this session ahead of the general election. A total of 121 MPs from all parties have now stood down.
