Labour whip to stand down at general election
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A Labour MP who has been the longest-serving Government whip announced today that he will stand down at the general election.
Tommy McAvoy, MP for Rutherglen and Hamilton West, decided to retire after 23 years in Westminster.
He said: "I have now reached the age of 66 and like anyone it is only natural to consider my future.
"Having considered all the factors involved I have concluded, after a lot of thought, the best thing for the local party and my family is to step down.
"I am proud to have been elected at successive elections as a Labour and Co-operative MP. I am also proud to have served 13 years within the Labour Government Whips Office."
Mr McAvoy, born and brought up in Rutherglen, offered his full support to his successor who will have "all to fight for" at the forthcoming election.
Prime Minister Gordon Brown described the MP as a "titan of the House of Commons", adding: "Throughout that time he has also tirelessly worked for the people of his home town of Rutherglen and the nearby area. His hard work will be sorely missed in Lanarkshire and Westminster alike.
Secretary of State for Scotland Jim Murphy said: "Tommy is not just an MP - he is an institution. He is the longest serving government whip of all time.
"His job has been to steer laws through parliament to change people's lives. It is because of his work that Labour has been able to introduce so many changes which help so many people in different ways."
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments