Keith Vaz not standing for re-election

Keith Vaz will not be standing for re-election in the upcoming General Election.

The Labour MP for Leicester East, has been embroiled in controversy after he was found to have “expressed willingness” to purchase cocaine for others. He had been facing suspension from the Commons for six months

In a statement, Vaz said, “It has been an honour and a privilege to serve my constituency since I came to the city in 1985.

“I want to thank the people of Leicester East for their absolute loyalty and support. Leicester and especially the people of Leicester East will always be in my heart.”

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said Vaz had “made a substantial and significant contribution to public life”.

Vaz has been an MP for 32 years.