In the statement, Mason highlighted what he described as key achievements while serving as MP, including securing transport funding for the region, lobbying ministers over concerns surrounding in-game trials, and backing a Fairness Guarantee scheme for businesses.
He also claimed credit for efforts to prevent the previous government from extending its term, calling it “a record I can be proud of”.
However, Mason acknowledged the limitations of serving as an opposition independent MP, writing that there was “only so much” he could accomplish from outside government.
“I feel I have more to give in a more direct way,” the statement read.
Despite confirming he will not stand again as an independent candidate, Mason insisted the decision did not represent a departure from politics altogether, but rather “a different direction”.
