LABOUR Minister Harry Bains, who is the MLA for Surrey-Newton, on Friday announced that he will not run for Mayor of Surrey in this year’s municipal election.

In a statement, Bains said: “While I thank the people in the community who urged me to run for Mayor of Surrey in the next municipal election, I remain committed to the province and making a stronger BC through my work as an MLA & in cabinet. I am so incredibly humbled by the support from community members.

“After much consideration, I believe the best way I can serve people in my Surrey community and people across BC is to continue to work hard to improve conditions for workers, improve services we rely on such as health & education, build a secure future & make life more affordable.

“Again, I want to thank the community for continuing to put your trust and confidence in me. I could not be more honored to have received your encouragements.”