RUTH Kelly’s decision to stand down as MP at the next general election has been backed by her constituency colleagues.

Ms Kelly resigned from her post as Transport Secretary last month, saying she wanted to spend more time with her family.

And, on Thursday, she said she would be standing down from her post as MP for Bolton West at the next general election, siting the same reasons.

David Crausby, who is MP for Bolton North-east, said: “It’s a matter for her to decide, but if she isn’t committed to the seat then she shouldn’t stand.

“She did say she was standing down as a minister to devote more time to her children.

“Work as a back bench MP is hard work, especially in a town like Bolton.

“If she isn’t 100 per cent committed then it is right that she is standing down.”

Dr Brian Iddon, who is also standing down as an MP for Bolton at the next general election, thanked Ms Kelly for her work over the last 11 years.

He said: “This is a personal decision and I respect that.

“I’m sorry that she has been forced into this decision because of family commitments, but it is a tough job for people with a family.

“I’ve enjoyed working with her and thank her for everything she’s done for me personally and for Bolton.”

The Labour Party must now choose another candidate to stand in Bolton West at the next general election.

A spokesman for the Labour Party said: “The candidate will be selected in due course under the Party’s normal National Executive Committee procedures.”

It can take up to 12 weeks to draw up a selection of candidates.