In a significant development for the Conservative Party, Mid Worcestershire MP Nigel Huddleston has announced he will not be contesting the next General Election, becoming the latest in a growing exodus of Tory MPs.
The former arts and tourism minister revealed his decision to step down after nine years in Parliament, dealing another blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's leadership ahead of the crucial national vote.
'It has been the honour of my life to serve the people of Mid Worcestershire,' Huddleston stated in his resignation letter. 'After careful consideration, I have decided not to stand as a candidate in the next General Election.'
His departure means a by-election will be called in his constituency, where he secured a substantial majority of 21,619 in the 2019 election. This safe Tory seat will now become a key battleground as parties gear up for the national campaign.
Huddleston's resignation brings the total number of Conservative MPs standing down to over 60, highlighting the deepening crisis within the party as they trail significantly in opinion polls.
The MP, who previously served in the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, cited personal reasons for his decision but emphasised his continued support for the Prime Minister and the Conservative government.
Political analysts suggest the growing number of Tory departures indicates widespread concern among MPs about their re-election prospects, with Labour maintaining a strong lead in polling averages.
The timing of this resignation adds further pressure on Sunak's leadership as he attempts to unite his party and close the gap with Labour before the election, which is expected later this year.
