Long-time Conservative MP Bev Shipley will not seek re-election

Long-time Conservative MPBevShipleysays he will not seek re-election and will retireafter his current term ends.

Shipley, 71, used his summerBBQon Sundayto tell supporters he will not be running in the next federal election, scheduled for 2019.

Shipleyhas represented thesouthwestern Ontario riding ofLambton-Kent-Middlesex since2006.

"Nearly 13 years ago,Lambton-Kent-Middlesexchose me to speak for them in Parliament," wrote the MP in a message posted on his Facebook page.

"That's a trust I have upheld and one which will be passed on to another in the next election. I again thank my constituents for that trust and look forward to what the future will bring."

Shipleywon the seat for the Conservatives in four consecutive elections. Shipleywas the chair ofthe Standing Committee on Agriculture andAgri-foodfrom October 2013 to 2015 when Parliament was dissolved.

"There is still a lot of work to do between now and when the next election," wrote Shipley."We have an intelligent, genuine Leader in Andrew Scheer and a strong team of Conservative Members who are listening and working hard for Canadians."