By DANE LILLINGSTONE
Federal Maranoa MP Bruce Scott has announced he will not seek re-election at the next federal election.
Mr Scott, who has represented Maranoa for 25 years, had only just taken the role of acting speaker in the wake of Bronwyn Bishop’s resignation.
He will continue in his role as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and chairman of the trade sub-committee.
Speculation has begun on who will now take the role with Lawrence Springborg a name that has been thrown around before.
Shortly after the announcement, Mr Springborg praised Mr Scott’s contribution to the region.
“Bruce Scott has dedicated 25 years of outstanding service passionately representing one of the largest electorates in the federal parliament,” Mr Springborg said.
“Bruce always put the interests of his constituents first and many people in the Maranoa electorate will attest to his professional and respectful manner.”
He also put a line through his name declaring his intention to solely focus on the Southern Downs.
“Given my role in forming the LNP, I have passionately and proudly served as the Member for Southern Downs and my commitment to this region should never be underestimated,” he said.
“My priority is and will continue to be representing the Southern Downs electorate to the best of my ability and returning the LNP to government.”
There have been no indications at this stage as to who will contest the seat for the LNP.
