Member of Parliament for Beckenham, Bob Stewart has told the Association that he will not be the candidate for the new Beckenham and Penge constituency at the General Election.
In a letter to the Chairman of Beckenham and Penge Conservatives, Tom Capon, Bob said:
“I have now decided that I should not be the candidate at the next General Election; in the interests of the Association, Party and also myself.
I have considered it one of the greatest privileges of my life to represent Beckenham for thirteen and a half years and my heart will always be with the new Association. Of course, I will do all in my power to support whoever is selected to replace me”
Tom Capon said:
“Following his very distinguished military career we all know how well Bob has adapted to a very different world and served the constituents of Beckenham with gusto and efficiency. We will all miss him as our MP and pass on our very grateful thanks for all he has done for us.
Bob will remain as the MP for Beckenham until the election and will continue to represent all constituents and deal with issues they may have.
The Association will now start the process of selecting a new candidate for Beckenham and Penge following the party’s rules and guidance on selecting parliamentary candidates. The final part of this process will be a meeting for all local party members to hear presentations by shortlisted candidates and vote on them.
I’m sure you all join me in wishing Bob all success for a new chapter in his life.”