George Osborne quits as an MP – and gives the story to his own paper

George Osborne has just delivered his first Evening Standard scoop. The London free-sheet reports that the MP for Tatton is quitting as an MP — but will carry on ‘fighting for that Britain’ he ‘loves’ as the editor of the Evening Standard.

In a letter to Conservatives in his constituency, Osborne said he would continue to stay active in political debates on issues he is passionate about. With May set to increase her majority in the snap election, Osborne may feel there is little opportunity for him in the next Parliament. While the former chancellor said he was thrilled to be taking charge of the Standard, he refused to rule out a return to Westminster in the future:

‘I am stepping down from the House of Commons – for now. But I will remain active in the debate about our country’s future and on the issues I care about, like the success of the Northern Powerhouse.