AFTER representing Kingaroy and the Southern Downs for 25 years in Federal Parliament, Maranoa MP Bruce Scott announced he will be retiring. 

The 71-year-old announced he would not seek re-election for the seat of Maranoa at the next Federal Election in 2016. 

Mr Scott, who is the longest running member in the seat's history, served in a number of prominent positions including Minister for Veterans Affairs, Minister for Defence and Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives.

In his resignation, Mr Scott fondly reflected on his time in parliament. 

"I have proudly taken the fight of my constituents to the floor of the Federal Parliament, representing them in times of gresat triumph and despair," Mr Scott said. 

"I have fought hard for better agricultural, health and education outcomes and to improve the local telecommunications and transport networks across the electorate. 

"I value the friendship shown to me by my State and Federal colleagues and appreciate the support of my constituency." 

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Warren Truss said Mr Scott served with distinction. 

"That passionate advocacy for his community and western Queensland, in particular, has been the hallmark of his 25 years in the federal parliament," Mr Truss said. 

"There have been few more persistent and strident advocates in the parliament than Bruce Scott and few more faithful representatives of people in regional Australia."