Michael Gove, the current Secretary of Housing and Community, has announced his decision to retire as a Member of Parliament (MP) in the forthcoming general election, marking the end of his nearly two-decade-long political career.
In a heartfelt letter addressed to his constituency chairman, Gove, a seasoned cabinet minister, expressed that serving as an MP and minister has been a “deeply rewarding experience”.
He wrote, “Growing up in Aberdeen, I never dreamed that I would one day have the chance to serve in the Commons, let alone be a part of the cabinet.”
He further added, “The fact that four prime ministers entrusted me with the responsibility to serve our country in their governments has been the greatest honour of my life.”
Throughout his political journey, Mr. Gove has held several key positions including Education Secretary, Chief Whip, Justice Secretary, Environment Secretary, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, and most recently, the Housing portfolio. His announcement makes him the 77th Conservative MP to declare retirement.