In a heartfelt letter to his local Conservative Association, Sir Alok Sharma, Member of Parliament for Reading West & Mid Berkshire, has announced his decision not to stand in the next General Election. This announcement marks the end of an era for the Conservative MP

In his letter, Sharma expressed the difficulty of his decision, acknowledging the immense honor and privilege it has been to serve as an MP for the town where he grew up. Over the years, he has not only represented his constituents but has also had the privilege of serving in the Government and representing the United Kingdom on the international stage.

He extended his heartfelt thanks to his constituents, local organisations, charities, and businesses with whom he has worked tirelessly since his selection as the parliamentary candidate in 2006. Together, they have campaigned on a wide range of issues to enhance the local area’s quality of life and prosperity.

Sir Alok Sharma affirmed his commitment to supporting his Conservative colleagues and diligently serving his constituents for the remainder of his time as an MP. He also expressed his unwavering dedication to championing causes close to his heart, with a particular emphasis on climate action.

Throughout his illustrious political career, Sharma has held various key roles and made significant contributions to the country’s governance:

– He served as a member of the Science and Technology Select Committee between July 2010 and February 2011.

– From September 2014 to March 2015, he was a member of the Treasury Select Committee.

– Sharma served as Conservative Party Vice-Chairman from 2012 to 2015 and co-chairman of Conservative Friends of India in 2014.

– In July 2019, he was appointed Secretary of State for International Development, where he emphasised the importance of UK aid addressing global challenges and focusing on climate change, sustainable economies, and women’s rights.

– Following a cabinet reshuffle in February 2020, Sharma assumed the role of Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, playing a prominent role in government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

– In July 2020, he oversaw the UK government’s purchase of a significant stake in OneWeb, a satellite communications company, for $500 million.

– Sharma introduced the National Security and Investment Act 2021 to Parliament in collaboration with Lord Callanan.

– He was appointed President of the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) and played a crucial role in the successful negotiations of the Glasgow Climate Pact at the conference.