Former MP Stewart Jackson confirms he will not be Conservative candidate in Peterborough at next General Election

Outspoken Mr Jackson lost his seat in last June’s election to Labour’s Fiona Onasanya having first won the seat in 2005.

The eurosceptic has since become chief of staff to David Davis, the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union.

Writing on Twitter today he said: “Written to @PbConservatives confirming I won’t try 2 be candidate at next General Election.Thanks & good luck 2 new candidate #Peterborough.”

Mr Jackson has since added: “After very careful thought I have written to my friends and supporters at Peterborough Conservatives to advise them that I will not be putting my name forward as a candidate for the Peterborough constituency at the next General Election.

“I contested the seat five times - I won three times and lost twice - and had a fantastic run over 17 years as a candidate and the city’s MP and frankly this would not have been possible without the stalwart support of my loyal, dedicated and hardworking Association officers and members, as well as my wife and family.

“However, it’s time for someone else to carry the banner and seek to win the seat back from the Labour incumbent.

“I wish that new candidate all the luck in the world. It’s been a wonderful few years but my role as a Special Advisor and Chief of Staff to the Secretary of State for Exiting the EU and at the heart of government at this unique and historic juncture prevents me from being able to give campaigning in the city the priority it requires.

“It’s time to explore new opportunities and wider horizons.”

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