End of an Era: Michael Gove and Andrea Leadsom Announce Departure from UK Politics Ahead of General Election

Housing Secretary Michael Gove and ex-business secretary Andrea Leadsom have announced they will not be running in the upcoming general election. Gove has served in various roles within the Conservative government, with his latest position being the housing secretary. He has been a prominent figure in the administrations of David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, and Rishi Sunak.

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Friday, May 24, 2024, 8:

Housing Secretary Michael Gove and ex-business secretary Andrea Leadsom have announced their decision not to seek re-election in the upcoming general election.

Mr. Gove declared that after serving nearly two decades as the Conservative MP for Surrey Heath and holding various cabinet positions over the last 14 years, it is time for "a new generation to lead."

In correspondence with the chairperson of his local party, the long-serving government minister expressed that serving as both a Member of Parliament and a minister has been an "immense honor."

Current updates on the general election: Responses to Gove and Leadsom's decision not to seek re-election

On Friday evening, just a few hours later, Ms. Leadsom, who previously contended for the leadership of the Conservative Party against Theresa May following the Brexit vote, announced her resignation.

In her departure note, Ms. Leadsom expressed that serving as the Member of Parliament for South Northamptonshire for the past 14 years has been "the most profound privilege."

Ms. Leadsom, presently serving as a junior health minister, held the position of business secretary during Mrs. May's tenure.

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In her letter, she refrained from commending Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, choosing rather to express her ongoing commitment to the Conservative Party. She stated her intention to back the party in the upcoming general election and beyond, believing it most closely represents the principles and values of the British populace.

Gove expresses it's been the greatest honor of his life to serve.

Mr. Gove, whose positions have ranged from education secretary to chief whip, justice secretary, environment secretary, and chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, with his latest role overseeing housing, expressed that being a part of the government was the greatest honor of his life.

He played a prominent role as a spokesperson for the Vote Leave campaign during the Brexit discussions.

Additionally, his unexpected move to withdraw support for Boris Johnson during the 2016 leadership race to succeed David Protagonist led to Mrs. May assuming leadership of the party.

Mr. Johnson exacted his retaliation by dismissing Mr. Gove from his government as his administration fell apart.

He is the 77th Conservative Member of Parliament to declare his resignation – the complete list of MPs exiting parliament can be found here.

Mr. Gove stated: "Growing up in Aberdeen, it was beyond my wildest dreams to one day be a member of the Commons, much less at the cabinet table.

"Being requested by four prime ministers to serve in their administrations has been the greatest honor of my life."

A setback for the Conservative Party's spirit

Assistant political editor

Michael Gove has been a prominent figure throughout the 14 years of Conservative leadership at Downing Street.

He hasn't merely been a typical member of the cabinet; he has consistently held one of the most senior positions.

He shared a strong bond with David Cameron during his tenure as Prime Minister, serving as a key advisor for Prime Minister's Questions within his inner circle. This connection lasted until the Brexit referendum, where he significantly influenced the campaign for the Vote Leave faction.

Mr. Gove played a pivotal role with Boris Johnson in leading the UK's exit from the European Union.

Following a brief break from his political duties, he made a comeback during Theresa May's tenure and subsequently played a pivotal role throughout much of Boris Johnson's leadership, until he was dismissed towards the end of Johnson's term in office. He later resumed his role when Rishi Sunak took over.

Recently, he has felt that his impact in government isn't as significant as it once was.

The Conservative Party is likely to experience a significant dip in spirits, as for numerous years, whenever the party faced challenges, Michael Gowe was consistently the one with the cleverness, talent, and intelligence to rejuvenate them and lift the party's spirits.

He further stated, "I am well aware of the demands of office, and so are those nearest to me. Everyone in politics has made the choice to be here voluntarily. We are not drafted; we are volunteers who have deliberately chosen this path."

"The opportunity to serve is a privilege. However, there arrives a time when you realize that stepping down is necessary. It's time for the next generation to take the helm."

Honoring Mr. Gove, Mr. Sunak stated, "Michael Gove stands out as one of the most impactful cabinet ministers in recent memory.

"His transformative policies as education minister have created significant and enduring improvements, positioning English children as top readers in the Western World. He injected energy into our equalization efforts, guaranteeing the expansion of opportunities regardless of location, and he has steadfastly protected our valued union."

"I would like to express my gratitude for his unwavering commitment to the people he represents and the nation, his constant vitality and contributions during meetings, and personally, for his kind support and sage advice.

"The nation and its leadership will greatly miss his presence in the forefront of the political scene, and I extend my best wishes for his endeavors ahead."

In 2019, Mr. Gove secured his Surrey constituency by a margin of 18,349 votes, a seat that the Liberal Democrats are now aiming to capture.

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Responding to the situation, Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Olney stated, "Conservative members are rapidly abandoning their stronghold areas. Michael Gove is evidently avoiding a confrontation with the Liberal Democrats."

The sound of Conservative MPs announcing their resignations has been intensifying with each passing day – now it's overwhelming.

"Each resignation of a Conservative MP in key blue wall districts serves as a stark critique of Rishi Sunak and signals a rise in support for the Liberal Democrats."

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