SIR Patrick Mayhew has confirmed he is to stand down as MP for Tunbridge Wells at the next election. Confirmation of Sir Patrick's widely expected decision was given to constituency officers at the weekend, and confirmed by Conservative Central Office.
However, there is no indication that he intends to leave his post as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland before the end of the parliamentary term.
Sources said yesterday he would remain in the cabinet for as long as the Prime Minister wished him to do so. And it is widely accepted at Westminster that Mr Major is happy to abide by Sir Patrick's decision.
If Sir Patrick decided his departure would facilitate a pre-election reshuffle, his deputy at Stormont, Mr Michael Ancram, would be expected to succeed him.
