ONE of the region’s long-serving MPs is to stand down at the next General Election.

Labour’s Hugh Bayley has represented York in the House of Commons for 22 years and will be 63 when the election is held.

"It has been a tremendous privilege to represent York in Parliament for 22 years, which is much longer than I expected when I was first elected in 1992,” he said.

"My family have been tremendously supportive, and very tolerant about me working long hours, often seven days a week, but now I want to put them first.

"It's too early to start thanking all the many people who have supported me over the years.

“I haven't gone yet, and I will still give the job everything I've got over the next six months. I've lots of unfinished business that I still want to do.”

Labour leader Ed Miliband said: “Parliament will miss his integrity and will be the weaker for the loss of his expertise on international development and international relations.

“I wish Hugh and his family all the best for the future and on behalf of the Labour Party I would like thank him for his tireless dedication to social justice.”