The Conservative MP for Hornchurch and Upminster has announced she will not seek to be re-elected at the general election in June.

Prime Minister Theresa May called for a snap general election yesterday to take place to help give the country stability, certainty and strong leadership following the EU referendum.

This has spurred on Dame Angela’s decision to step down from her role as MP.

She said: “Parliament voted today to hold a general election on June 8.

“This will give the prime minister a mandate for the Brexit negotiations, which a large majority of Havering residents voted for.

“It has been a privilege to represent Hornchurch and Upminster for the last four parliaments but I have decided not to seek re-election for health reasons.

“The next two years will be challenging and I wish my successor good luck in working towards the best possible outcome for our country.”

Dame Angela has been taking a step back from her Parliamentary work after she suffered from a minor stroke last year.

She has been an MP for the seat of Upminster since 2001, which became the Hornchurch and Upminster constituency in 2010.