Head of MI5, UK's domestic spying agency, to step down next month

LONDON – The head of Britain's domestic spy agency, MI5, will step down from his post next month at the end of his contract.

Jonathan Evans has led MI5 as director general since 2007, and Britain's Home Secretary Theresa May announced to lawmakers Monday that the spy chief would be "moving on" after 33 years in the security services.

May praised Evans' "invaluable contribution to public safety and national security."

She says Evans led the service through "particularly challenging" times such as the aftermath of the 2005 bomb attacks on London's transport network.

The home secretary also commended Evans for ensuring a "safe and successful" London Olympics last summer.