Veteran Liberal MP and former cabinet minister Paul Fletcher has confirmed he will not run for re-election, bowing out of federal politics after a 15-year stint.
The Bradfield MP will leave parliament following the next election, and is the second exit of a high-profile moderate following the resignation of the Coalition’s foreign affairs spokesman Simon Birmingham.
Mr Fletcher, who served as the former communications minister, and is currently the Coalition’s spokesman for government services, said it was time for change.
“Last week I marked fifteen years as Member for Bradfield. Renewal is healthy, for people and institutions, and now is the right time to hand over the baton,” he said.
“I expect some outstanding people will put themselves forward to be the next Liberal candidate for Bradfield, and to serve the people of Bradfield with energy and commitment.
“That Liberal candidate, once chosen through our party processes, will have my full support.”
More to come