Conservative MP Bill Grant to stand down

Conservative MP Bill Grant has announced that he will not stand at the next Westminster election.

The MP for Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock has represented the seat since the 2017 general election when he beat the SNP’s incumbent Corri Wilson.

The 68-year-old said that it had been a “difficult decision to take” especially when the UK is “facing such an enormous challenge” but insisted that he only ever intended to serve one parliamentary term.

Grant voted Remain in the 2016 EU referendum and was supportive of Theresa May’s withdrawal agreement.

He recently voted in favour of the UK Government’s unsuccessful motions for an early general election, while opposing legislation aimed at stopping a no-deal Brexit.

Writing to his constituents, Grant said:  “I am writing to inform you that, after much reflection, I have decided not to seek re-election at the forthcoming general election. 

“This has been a difficult decision to take.

“I have served my country in some form of public service for 53 years, and to leave that service now when the country is facing such an enormous challenge has been difficult to consider.

“However, I have always maintained that I intended to serve one term only, albeit in this case it looks to be only two-and-a-half years rather than the anticipated five. 

“I have felt immensely proud and privileged to serve the constituency.

“I wish to thank all my constituents who supported me in 2017 and those who have in recent weeks indicated that they would support me in the forthcoming election, including a number from those who are not traditionally Conservative voters.

“To these people who had faith in me, a heartfelt thank you. 

“I have throughout my time in office endeavoured to put my constituents first and serve them to the best of my abilities.

“Constituents who granted me the privilege of learning about their lives and businesses, or to participate in their local events.

“I wish whoever they choose to elect the best of luck and hope they will serve my former constituents well. I certainly intend to remain involved locally, even if it is just to go back to the litter-picking. 

“In closing, I wish to thank my constituency and parliamentary staff for their hard work, loyalty and dedication.

“They have been unwavering in their support for me and my constituents. I reflect on a line from Burns given to the Dumfries-shire Volunteers - “ne'er forget the people”. Well, I certainly never will."