Andrew Lansley to step down as South Cambridgeshire MP

Former Cabinet minister Andrew Lansley has announced he is stepping down from Parliament at the general election and hopes to get an "international" role.

In a letter to David Cameron, the South Cambridgeshire MP said he told the Prime Minister earlier this year that he would not be seeking re-election.

"You supported my ambition to continue my life of public service in challenging and important roles," he wrote. "I am grateful to you now for expressing your support for me to take such a role in international public service in the months ahead."

The missive does not make clear what post Mr Lansley, who was replaced as Leader of the House of Commons by William Hague, is referring to.

There had been widespread speculation that he could be nominated as the UK's next European commissioner, but Mr Cameron disclosed today that the former Leader of the Lords, Lord Hill, had been put forward.

In his response to Mr Lansley, the premier wrote: "You have much more to give in terms of public service, and I look forward to being able to support you in doing so in the months and years ahead."

Read more: Exchange of letters from Andrew Lansley and PM