Former Prime Minister Theresa May is to stand down at the next general election.
Mrs May, 67, led the country between 2016 and 2019.
She replaced David Cameron who resigned after the referendum decision to leave the EU.
Mrs May said it was a “difficult decision” to step down after representing the Maidenhead constituency for 27 years.
In a statement she added:
“Since leaving No 10 I have been able to champion several causes close to my heart.
“These causes have been taking an increasing amount of my time.
“Because of this, after much careful thought and consideration, I have realised that, looking ahead, I would no longer be able to do my job as an MP in the way I believe is right and my constituents deserve.”
Mrs May said that she remained “committed to supporting Rishi Sunak and the Government and believe that the Conservatives can win the election”.
Speaking to the Maidenhead Advertiser, Mrs May said:
“It has been an honour and a privilege to serve everyone in the Maidenhead constituency as the Member of Parliament for the last 27 years.
“Being an MP is about service to one’s constituents and I have always done my best to ensure that I respond to the needs of local people and the local area.
“Since stepping down as Prime Minister I have enjoyed being a backbencher again and having more time to work for my constituents and champion causes close to my heart including most recently launching a Global Commission on Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking.”
