Sajid Javid announces decision to not run in next UK general election

Senior Tory says serving as an MP has been the 'privilege of my life'

Sajid Javid will bow out of UK politics at the next general election. Getty

The former Conservative government minister Sajid Javid had said he will not stand as an MP at the next general election.

The senior Tory is among the latest names to bow out of seeking re-election after a turbulent period for the party.

Mr Javid, who previously served as chancellor of the exchequer and health secretary, said the decision to quit politics had been one he had “wrestled with for some time”.

He cited boundary changes to his constituency of Bromsgrove in Worcestershire as a contributory factor.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved for Bromsgrove District and of my work in Parliament and Government,” he said in a letter posted on Twitter.

“This decision will not mark the end of my Parliamentary activity, particularly for the causes I care deeply about. Nor will it impact my duties as a local MP on behalf of constituents across Bromsgrove.

“Being the local MP and serving in Government has been the privilege of my life and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve.

“I always sought to make decisions in the national interest, and in line with my values, and I can only hope my best was sufficient.

“I will of course continue to support my friend the Prime Minister and the people of Bromsgrove in any way I can.”

He is the most high-profile of the more than a dozen Tory MPs to announce his decision not to seek re-election.

Chloe Smith, William Wragg and rising star Dehenna Davison are among those who have said they will not run.

Rishi Sunak responded to Mr Javid's announcement by saying he felt "sad" to hear that his "good friend" is planning to quit the world of politics.

“Sad to see my good friend Sajid Javid stepping back from politics," the prime minister tweeted. “He’s been a proud champion of enterprise and opportunity during his time in Government and on the backbenches — particularly for the people of Bromsgrove.

“May the Force be with you, Saj.”