His early retirement was announced after meeting with Foreign Minister Mahendra Bahadur Pandey and Acting Foreign Secretary Shanker Das Bairagi where he conveyed that he will complete his assignment in Nepal in March, a statement issued by the British Embassy said.

Many here believe the reason behind his retirement is a result of his “controversial” write-up in a daily,  calling the Constituent Assembly members of Nepal to ensure in the new constitution that the people’s right to change their religion is protected.

In his statement, Ambassador Sparkes said that he has also taken a personal decision to leave the British Foreign Service after 30 years, which included three

ambassadorial designations. “ He [ Sparkes ] wishes to have time to pursue other opportunities outside the government. Sparkes hopes to maintain his links with Nepal, for which he has great affection, and to continue his engagement with the development of the country particularly in the education

and health sectors,” the statement read.  

Following the controversial write up, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in mid-December summoned the Charge d’Affaires of the British Embassy Guy Harrison and sought explanation over the envoy’s controversial remarks at a time when Nepal is engaged in the constitution drafting process, claiming that such remark would not help the process.  

In his statement, the ambassador further said, “I may be leaving as an ambassador but I am sure I am not saying goodbye to Nepal. I wish success and prosperity to its great people and hope to continue to play my part as an individual in the upcoming celebration of 200 years of special relationship between Nepal and the UK.”

Sparkes arrived in Kathmandu on April 20, 2013 to take up his assignment.