“I think everything you do will become a big distraction and a big diversion from what the government needs to do for our country”, Cameron told reporters Monday, adding that he supports his successor as prime minister, Theresa May.
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In May this year he told BBC Radio Oxford that he was “very keen to continue” as an MP after the scheduled 2020 general election. “The timing in that way, I promise, is coincidental”.
Cameron’s unexpected announcement Monday will trigger a by-election for his seat in Oxfordshire.
He promised to support the Conservative Party candidate chosen to replace him in the by-election that will be held in order to fill the Parliament vacancy.
He said that May is off to “a great start” and is well positioned to lead Britain.
Mr Cameron today quit as MP in his constituency, announcing he is to go and work in the City.
Cameron said he wanted to continue making a “public service” contribution and would speak out about worldwide issues in the future – a hint he may seek a new role on the world stage.
“I’m sure I will be remembered for keeping that pledge to hold a referendum when many people thought that promise would never be kept”, he said. He also sought to fend off a threat from a small rival, the anti-EU UK Independence Party, which had siphoned away votes from Mr. Cameron’s center-right Conservatives.
“And we did make some important social reform. I’m only 49. I hope I can still contribute in terms of public service and to the country”.
‘I don’t think this decision is about grammar schools, but I think one of the things that makes it hard for him to stay on is the extent to which Theresa May is moving away from Cameronism.
Mr Cameron’s retreat from elected office comes after controversy over his resignation honours list.
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said he wished David Cameron “all the best for the future”, adding he got on well with him on a “human level”.
The post carries no salary or responsibilities, but as a Crown appointment renders the holder ineligible to sit as an MP.
Mr Cameron’s acclaimed speech to the Conservative Party conference in 2005 was considered a turning point in the leadership contest..
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British Prime Minister David Cameron prepares to address a press conference at the end of an extraordinary two-day EU summit at the European Council in Brussels, Belgium, Feb.19, 2016.
