Two Conservative Kent MPs stand down ahead of General Election
Craig Mackinlay and Greg Clark make the announcement on social media
South Thanet MP Craig Mackinlay has announced he will be standing down ahead of the General Election.
On Wednesday, Mr Mackinlay made his first appearance in the House of Commons since his sepsis ordeal.
The South Thanet MP was taken to hospital on September 28 and put into a 16-day induced coma, with his wife told he had only a 5% chance of survival.
In a statement to GB News he said: "Whilst my heart tells me to stand again, there being so much unfinished business across local regeneration and national issues which are important to me, my head knows this to be impossible at this time.
"It would be difficult to withstand the rigours of an all-out election campaign, a campaign that I'd always wish to lead from the front. Thereafter, upon being re-elected it would be difficult for me to sustain 70 to 80-hour working weeks which were the norm prior to my illness.
"I had hoped to phase my return to the House of Commons over the coming months as my abilities improved. Since leaving in-patient rehabilitation a month ago my life now revolves around various medical appointments.
"I face numerous future operations as a result of the serious sepsis that I suffered which very nearly took my life. I have only just started the prosthetic journey and I have weekly physiotherapy and occupational therapy sessions."
Meanwhile, former cabinet minister Greg Clark is the 75th Conservative MP to announce he is standing down at the General Election.
He said on X, formerly Twitter: "After nearly 20 years as MP for Tunbridge Wells I will not be standing at the General Election.
"I am grateful and proud to have been able to speak and fight for the people of this beautiful and famous place. Standing is a 5 year commitment and it's time to pass the baton on."