Graham Stuart has decided to stand down from his role as chairman of the Commons education select committee.

The Conservative MP told TES that after eight “tremendously fulfilling” years of examining education policy - five as chairman - it was time for another challenge.

“I have enjoyed it and I hope with colleagues that we have made a difference,” he said. “But I felt that if I stood again I would get to my thirteenth year of scrutinising the same department and there was a risk I might become a little stale.”

Mr Stuart has decided to stand for the chair of the Culture, Media and Sport committee instead. His former post - one of the most influential in education - is expected to go to the Conservatives again.

Tory MPs and education select committee members Caroline Nokes and Neil Carmichael have been suggested as potential replacements.