Rother Valley MP Sir Kevin Barron to step down at next election

The Rother Valley MP, who was elected in 1983, said he did not intend to contest the next general election, which is due to be held in 2022.

The ex-miner (pictured) said it had been “the honour of my life” to represent the people of the Rother Valley area but “I have made the decision that this Parliamentary term will be my last”.

Sir Kevin added: “I am very proud of the work that I have been able to do in Rother Valley and Parliament, in particular leading the way on many of the smoking controls that we now take for granted. 

“However, the work I am most proud of is the casework that never makes the headlines but makes a huge difference to people’s lives.

“I believe one of the main roles of being an MP is giving a voice to the voiceless and championing campaigns that otherwise would have no chance of success, I have always tried to do this throughout my political career.”

Sir Kevin paid tribute to his staff and his family and friends.