Laura Sandys to quit politics in blow for green Conservatism

Leading green Conservative MP Laura Sandys will step down at the next election, she announced on Monday.

Sandys, who is parliamentary private secretary to energy and climate change minister Greg Barker, cited family circumstances as her reason for quitting.

A statement on her website said: “It is with great sadness and regret that I wish to announce that I will not be standing at the next general election in 2015.  For the last six months I have been considering my future in light of a wide range of family demands and have decided that I cannot combine the level of dedication and service needed for the constituency with my growing personal responsibilities to those closest and dearest to me.”

She assured constituents she will continue to “work tirelessly” until then.

Political and green commentators payed tribute to her record of championing energy efficiency and renewable policy in the face of scepticism from other elements of her party.

Barker tweeted: “Gutted to be losing inspirational @LauraSandysMP but know she will continue to be a huge force for good even outside Parliament #GreenHero”

Others described her as “one of the nicest people in politics” and “a real positive force for low carbon energy”.

Not everyone will be sorry to see her go, however, with the climate change sceptic blog Bishop Hill tweeting: “@LauraSandysMP, a fervent green, is to step down at the next election. Is it too much to hope for a Conservative next time?”