Sir John Major in quit decision over Lords

15/12/2011

Sir John Major has resigned from the MCC committee over the decision to redevelop Lord's on a stand-by-stand basis.

The former Prime Minister said he was opposed to the particular blueprint that has been agreed and was leaving the body for this reason.

However, just like those enjoying hospitality packages for the Test matches next summer when the West Indies and South Africa visit, Sir John may be expected at the ground, still enjoying the game itself.

He emphasised that the sport is "a lifelong and enduring passion" for him and that this will not change.

"The solace the game has given me in good times and bad, the friendships I have made and the sheer joy of the game will never fade," the successor to Margaret Thatcher added.

Sir John's love of the game was emphasised many times during his political career, not least when he left Downing Street for the last time after election defeat in 1997 - from where he headed straight to the Oval to watch Surrey in a county game.

By Sam Smith