THE vast majority of people don't believe Alan Milburn when he says he is leaving the Government because he wants to see more of his family.

That's because the vast majority of people don't believe politicians, no matter which party they represent.

There must be more to it: A sex scandal? An alternative job offer he didn't fancy? Tired of arm wrestling with Gordon Brown for money the NHS desperately needs? All part of a longer-term game plan?

No, it can't possibly be as straightforward as a man who simply feels guilty at being away from his children so much.

It may prove to be an extremely dangerous statement to make, but we believe Alan Milburn is telling it how it is and we also believe he is doing absolutely the right thing.

Having satisfied his political ambitions - for now - he has decided to make up for lost time with his partner Ruth and young sons. It is the most honourable reason for leaving a high-ranking political post that we can recall and one which will strike a chord with millions of parents who struggle with the same home-versus-work challenge every day.

That's why "Good for him" were three words repeated many times across the country after yesterday's surprise announcement, even if they were followed by five more: "If that's really the reason."

As for a game plan, Mr Milburn insists there isn't one. But with the Government heading for the end of a second term and its popularity in inevitable decline, who's to say this may not prove to be an astute political move?

He leaves Government office remarkably unscathed, having overseen commendable reforms to the health service, and is young enough to return when the in-fighting over the euro is history, and when he will have spent time with his sons at a crucial part of their lives.

Whatever the future holds, we wish Mr Milburn well. Darlington is a town on the move and it will benefit from the greater attention he can now give it - just as his children will.

And his resignation from the Government has, at the very least, provided a salient reminder to families everywhere: That no job is as important as parenthood.