Conservative MP Randy Kamp will not seek re-election after 'soul-searching'

Conservative MP Randy Kamp will not seek re-election after 'considerable soul-searching.' (Photo: Randykamp.com)

VANCOUVER -- A British Columbia Conservative MP has decided not to seek re-election, saying it is time for him to move on to a new chapter of his life.

Randy Kamp has served the riding of Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge-Mission since 2004, and made the announcement Saturday at a local meeting of the party.

Kamp issued a statement that says he informed Prime Minister Stephen Harper this week that he will not run again, after "considerable soul-searching."

He says about four years ago his hearing suddenly began to decline, to the point where he has profound loss in his left ear and severe loss in his right.

Kamp says his hearing loss was not the main factor in his decision, but it has made his job more difficult despite technology that has helped him cope.

He says in recent months he has felt a growing sense that it was time to move on after being involved with federal politics for 18 years, but he doesn't know what lies ahead yet.