As Michael Gove and John Redwood leave, all MPs resign at General Election

As announced by Rishi Sunak, the UK will hold its next general election in July. However, several well-known MPs have chosen not to seek re-election, meaning they will not face the electorate. 

Two prominent Conservative MPs, housing Secretary Michael Gove and former Business Secretary Andrea Leadsom have joined the growing list of Tories who have decided not to run in the upcoming election. This surge in Conservative MPs stepping aside has reached a new record since World War II.

In a letter to his constituents, Mr Gove acknowledged the challenges of public office and expressed his belief that it is now time for a new generation to take the lead. After nearly two decades in politics, he reflected on the toll it has taken.

According to recent reports, over 120 Members of Parliament have made public announcements regarding their decision to step down from their positions or not run for re-election in the upcoming general election.

Seventy-eight individuals belonged to the Conservative party, marking a significant milestone for the party. On Friday, veteran Tory MP John Redwood joined the list, adding to his notoriety for once mumbling through the Welsh national anthem.

In a surprising turn of events, former Prime Minister Theresa May made a stunning announcement in March, revealing her decision not to seek re-election.

During her farewell speech to parliament, the former Prime Minister emphasised the significance of democracy and urged the remaining MPs to prioritise the needs of the people who elected them. She called upon them to be a voice for those often unheard and reminded them that their role is to serve the public rather than to further their interests.

Nadhim Zahawi, a seasoned politician with experience as chancellor, education secretary, and Conservative Party chairman, decided to step down in May. He expressed that he believes it is the opportune moment for a fresh and dynamic Conservative to assume leadership. 

Alok Sharma, the former Cop26 president, has recently decided to step down at the upcoming general election. He expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve as an MP, stating that it has been a tremendous honour.

Mr Sharma, the representative for Reading West, previously served as the business secretary.

Sajid Javid, the former chancellor; Dominic Raab, the ex-deputy prime minister; and Ben Wallace, the former defence secretary, have all decided to step away from politics. Once seen as potential future Tory leaders, these prominent Conservatives have chosen this as their party faces challenges in the polls.

Mr. Sharma and Mr. Raab, who resigned from his cabinet position amidst a series of bullying allegations that he vehemently denied, would have faced the challenge of defending slim majorities of fewer than 5,000 had they chosen to remain in office for the upcoming election.

It is not surprising that most MPs leaving politics come from the Conservative party, considering they won the most seats in the 2019 election with a total of 365. 

As the Institute for Government reported, the 2010 election witnessed the resignation of almost 150 Members of Parliament, with the majority coming from the Labour Party, which had held power since 1997.

In response to that year's expenses scandal, several MPs announced they would be stepping down.

Notable figures from the Labour Party, including Harriet Harman, former leader of the party, Margaret Beckett, former foreign secretary, and Ben Bradshaw, former culture secretary, have announced their decision to step down from their positions as Members of Parliament.

Most opinion polls suggest the Conservative Party is headed for a significant defeat in the upcoming election.