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Victorian Liberal MP won’t contest election after drink-driving

Simon Ramsay won't contest the state election after being caught driving with a blood-alcohol reading of 0.191.

Simon Ramsay won't contest the state election after being caught driving with a blood-alcohol reading of 0.191. Photo: Victorian Parliament

Regional Victorian MP Simon Ramsay’s political journey has been cut short by a drink-driving error in which he returned a reading almost four times the legal limit.

The Liberal politician and farmer on Tuesday confirmed he would not contest the November state election after being stopped by police at Barwon Heads on Saturday night.

Police confirmed they stopped a driver at about 11.30pm on Saturday when he returned a blood-alcohol reading of 0.191. He had his licence suspended and faces charges related to drink driving.

“I am deeply remorseful for my actions and apologise for my error of judgement,” Mr Ramsay said in a statement issued after a meeting with party leader Matthew Guy.

“I also regret any embarrassment and hurt caused to my family, friends, colleagues and the Liberal Party.”

Earlier on Tuesday Opposition Leader Mr Guy said he planned a face-to-face chat with Mr Ramsay to decide his future with the party.

The 63-year-old had already resigned as shadow assistant minister for agriculture on Monday.

“I have met with Matthew Guy and advised him I will not recontest the next election,” Mr Ramsay said subsequently.

Mr Ramsay has been the upper house member for Western Victoria since November 2010.

-AAP

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