North Durham MP to stand down at General Election
Kevan Jones has been the Labour MP for the area since 2001
North Durham MP Kevan Jones says he will not be standing as a candidate at the General Election.
He's been the Labour MP for the area since 2001 - and in a statement said it has been an honour and privilege to represent his constituents.
The Labour former minister said in a letter announcing his decision not to stand it would be "impossible" for him to fight the campaign as he is undergoing surgery in early June for "an ongoing condition".
The North Durham MP described his decision as "difficult", adding: "I am sad to be leaving the House of Commons but would like to thank the people of North Durham and my supporters who gave me the opportunity to serve them."