Labour's John McFall, scourge of bankers, plans to quit as MP

Published on Friday 29 January 2010 20:45

JOHN McFall, the Labour MP who became the scourge of bankers through his forensic scrutiny of the financial crisis, last night announced he is quitting as an MP.

Mr McFall, chairman of the Commons Treasury select committee, said he would not be fighting the next general election. He made the announcement at the annual general meeting of his West Dunbartonshire constituency party.

"After 23 years representing my local area in Westminster and having reached normal retirement age, I see this as a natural time to move on and explore other areas of interest," Mr McFall said.

"I have been honoured and privileged to represent the Labour and Co-operative Party in West Dunbartonshire and I will continue to pledge my support to its future political success, both locally and nationally.

"I have nothing but the highest regard for all who dedicate themselves to enhancing the quality of life in our local communities.

"It has been my privilege to work alongside them and with I wish them well in their continued endeavours on behalf of people in the area."

Chancellor Alistair Darling said: "I am very sorry John McFall is standing down. He has made a tremendous contribution to politics in his role as MP, minister and now chair of the Treasury select committee.

"He passionately and robustly represented his constituents at all times and his services will be greatly missed at Westminster. I wish John and his wife Joan a long and happy retirement."

McFall was first elected MP for Dumbarton in 1987.

From 1997, Mr McFall was a government whip, and in July 1998 he was appointed parliamentary under-secretary in the Northern Ireland Office. He remained there until powers were devolved to the Northern Ireland Assembly.