ConservativeHome has been unable to confirm the rumours but there is an expectation in Westminster that Sir John Stanley, MP for Tonbridge and Malling, may be about to announce his retirement at the next General Election. We contacted his office yesterday and could not get a denial of the speculation. Should Sir John retire he will initiate a selection contest for a seat that he held with a majority of 13,352 at the last General Election.
10.15am: His office are now saying that Sir John will stand at the next General Election.
3.30pm: There is to be a 'selection' meeting (as opposed to a 'readoption' meeting) on Feb 7th