Ruth Kelly has announced she is to stand down as an MP.
The outgoing transport secretary, who announced her intention to leave the government for family reasons at last week's Labour Party conference, has also now said that she will step down from Parliament at the next election.
Kelly insisted her decision step down was purely for personal reasons.
And the mother of four has since said that she also intends not to contest her Bolton West constituency to spend more time with her family, not because she fears losing to the Conservatives or because of doubts about the direction of the government.
"I've thoroughly enjoyed serving the people of my constituency and intend to continue to keep working diligently for them until the next general election," she said.
"I've taken the area to my heart and will leave with a touch of sadness and fond memories, although I'm sure the decision I have taken is right for myself and my family."
The former education and communities secretary also praised "the strong leadership of Gordon Brown".
"I look forward to campaigning actively for Labour and firmly believe that we can win Bolton West at the next general election," she said, despite the seat having a majority of just 2,064.
"Only a Labour Bolton West MP working with a Labour government will build in the years to come on the solid foundations we've already laid."
