EMBATTLED Andrew MacKay MP has announced he will step down at the next election.
In a statement, he said: "Following a conversation with David Cameron this morning I have decided to step down as candidate for Bracknell at the next general election.
"I believe I could be a distraction at a time when he is working to get elected as prime minister with the good working majority necessary to take the tough decisions to turn this country around.
"I would never forgive myself if my candidature distracted voters from the key issues and particularly David's rousing call for change.
"It has been both a privilege and huge fun to represent the people of Bracknell for 26 years.
"I understand why people are angry. I hope my decision to step down goes some way to showing my constituents how sorry I am about my own situation." He got a mixed reaction at last night's public meeting, with some heckling but others more supportive.
He insisted that the meeting had nothing to do with his decision to step down, and encouraged other MPs to face their constituents.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel