John,

I have been overwhelmed and humbled by the many kind messages I’ve received in the past two days after announcing I intend to stand down as an MP at the next general election. Thank you so much to everyone who has sent them.

It’s been the privilege of my life to be the UK’s first Green MP and I’m proud of what I have achieved, from changing the political conversation on the climate crisis, holding the Government to account on Brexit, and promoting a more collaborative, progressive politics.

I’m also incredibly proud to have led the Green Party in this period and witnessed its transformation into a major political force with 52,000 members, over 700 Green councillors and dozens of Green-led councils, and a new generation of strong and inspiring leaders in the form of Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay.

That’s why I am confident handing over the baton. The party is well positioned now to win more seats in the next general election and get Greens elected in our target constituencies in Bristol, Waveney Valley, North Herefordshire, as well as Brighton Pavilion, the constituency I love and have represented for 13 years.

A lot of water has flowed under the bridge since I was first elected. But the need for Green MPs has grown. We urgently need to re-establish trust in politics and build a fairer greener country which promotes the wellbeing of people and planet. The accelerating climate crisis and ongoing destruction of our precious environment won’t wait.

There were many themes in the messages I received in the past few days. One was the power of hope. I  wouldn’t have made my historic breakthrough in 2010 without it, and we must hold it close whilst campaigning with professionalism, expertise and commitment in the run up to the general election.

That’s why I am asking you to pledge your support for the next generation of Green MPs today.

Thank you.

Caroline Lucas MP