Michael Gove Becomes Latest High-Profile Tory to Stand Down

Almost 80 Conservative MPs have said they will not seek re-election, breaking the record of 72 who quit prior to Sir Tony Blair’s 1997 landslide win for Labour.

Minister for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, Michael Gove, leaves the Millbank Studios in central London after taking part in the morning interview rounds on March 14, 2024. Jordan Pettitt/PA Wire

Cabinet minister Michael Gove has become the latest high-profile Conservative MP to stand down at the July 4 General Election.

The veteran minister said it was a “profound privilege” to be an MP and a minister, but it’s “time to leave” and that “a new generation should lead.”