MP to retire after 41 years in politics
BBCA Labour MP has announced his retirement after 41 years in politics.
Ian Mearns, who represents Gateshead, will be stepping down from his role at the next general election.
He said: “I have always been, from the perspective of a trade unionist, speaking up for people’s right to retire. I think it would be hypocritical of me to carry on."
Mr Mearns, who will turn 67 in April, has been Gateshead's MP since 2010, but was first elected as a councillor in 1983.
He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: “Between my time in Westminster and the council, I have been an elected representative for 41 years.
“But my big regret is that I have spent 14 years here and the entirety has been in opposition.”
During his time in Parliament, Mr Mearns has been a member of the education select committee and chair of the backbench business committee.
The Newcastle United fan also heads the all-party parliamentary group for football supporters.
Born and educated in Newcastle, he also chaired the unsuccessful campaign to set up a North East regional assembly during the Blair years.
Mr Mearns's seat is set to become Gateshead and Whickham under the redrawn parliamentary boundaries.
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