Ruth Kelly to quit as MP

Ruth Kelly is to stand down as an MP at the next general election, she announced yesterday. The Transport Secretary has already said she will leave the cabinet at the next reshuffle. Kelly told a Labour supporters' meeting in her Bolton West constituency that she wanted to spend more time with her four childen. She also stressed that she is not seeking a safer seat.

Kelly, who became an MP in 1997, said it had been an "honour and privilege" to serve her constituency.

"I've thoroughly enjoyed serving the people of my constituency and intend to continue to keep working diligently for them until the next general election," she said.