'A Hard Act To Follow'

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The former Acton and Ealing MP, Sir George Young announces his retirement

Sir George Young, the government's chief whip and former long serving MP for Acton and Ealing is to retire at the next election.

The 72 year old represented the area from 1974-97 - initially defeating the sitting Labour member Nigel Spearing and elected as the MP for Acton with a majority of 1,300.

He was re-elected in October 1974 and continued to represent Ealing Acton for the next 23 years until the seat was abolished under boundary changes. He has represented North West Hampsire since 1997.

Sir George said: '' have been very fortunate to have represented two constituencies – Ealing Acton and North West Hampshire. It would be difficult to find two Conservative seats that are more different. It has been a privilege to serve both as the local MP with majorities varying from 800 to over 18000. I have been lucky with the support I have had from two fantastic Conservative Associations – Ealing Acton from 1974-1997, and North West Hampshire from 1997.''

Sir George announced his retirement to the North West Hampshire Conservative Association in Andover. He said: "I have had a good innings and it is time to let others have the chance that I had back in 1974, I know there are some top-quality candidates waiting in the wings to take over the baton."

He said he had been "lucky" to serve under the Thatcher, Major and Cameron governments, but now wanted to "declare on 41 not out".

The current Conservative MP for Ealing Central and Acton, Angie Bray, has paid tribute to Sir George: "Sir George Young has been at the heart of the Conservative Party for many years - and during that time he has enjoyed a reputation as a hard-working representative on behalf of his constituents and as a courteous and generous Member of Parliament.  

''I always knew he would be a very hard act to follow in Ealing and Acton. He has also been a member of Government over many years and has proved a loyal colleague.  His brand of Conservatism has always been that of a mainstream, moderate Conservative and he has been able to represent the party in a kindly, human fashion.

''He was unfailingly kind and supportive to me when I was learning the ropes as a Parliamentary candidate in Ealing Central and Acton and, since I made it to Parliament, he has continued to give me good advice whenever I have sought it.  His presence in politics will be sorely missed by constituents, colleagues and the Conservative Party."

3rd December 2013