国际英语新闻：British shadow FM stands down after defeat for Labor leadership

He chose not to fight Gordon Brown for the leadership of the Labor party after Tony Blair stood down in 2007, despite calls from Blair supporters to do so.

He also chose not to stand against Gordon Brown in 2008 and in early 2010 when the resignation of Cabinet ministers sparked two crises of confidence in Brown's premiership, despite strong urging to step forward.

Labor leader Ed Miliband told reporters: "I think he has made a thoughtful and gracious decision. He is my brother and I am very clear that as leader of this party my door is always open for him to serve in the future either in opposition or in government."

Shadow Cabinet elections take place next week with 49 members of parliament fighting for 19 places. At least six of the 19 shadow Cabinet members must be women.

Ed Miliband cannot choose who will be in his shadow Cabinet, but he can choose what jobs he gives them. He made clear in his leadership acceptance speech and in a keynote speech on Tuesday that Labor was being led by "a new generation" and that the "New Labor" party of the Blair/Brown era was now over.