Pearson stands down as MP

Dudley South MP Ian Pearson is to stand down at the next General Election, it was announced today.

The minister, who has represented the constituency since 1994, says he wants "a better balance" between his working and personal life.

Mr Pearson, aged 50, has previously blamed the "enormous strain" of his job for the collapse of his marriage to wife Annette in April last year.

The father-of three announced his decision to stand down through a letter to his constituents issued by his spokesman Chris Burton.

It said: "Over the past 15 years, it has been an enormous privilege to serve the people of Dudley as your local MP.

"I have always strived to do the very best I can for our area and I remain passionately committed to it."

"I think now it is time to move on and do other things, including getting a better balance between my working and personal life," it added.

The labour MP declined to comment any further on his decision.

Mr Pearson was caught up in last year's expenses row when he was revealed as among the 20 highest claimants in the country for his expenses.