Tributes are pouring in after the tragic news that Conversative MP Sir David Amess has died after a stabbing attack this afternoon. He’s been lauded as a hugely dedicated MP, with a career in politics spanning nearly four decades, and has been described by Stella Creasy, the Labour MP for Walthamstow, as ‘decency personified’. Boris Johnson said he's 'one of the most kindest, nicest, most gentle people in politics.'
The MP for Southend West was holding a constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, when the attack happened. He was stabbed as he met constituents. Amess, 69, who was married with five children, has been an MP since 1983, campaigning on issues including animal rights during his 38 years in parliament.
Police have said a knife has been recovered and a 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. They are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.
Devastatingly, we've been here before, and the attack has reignited a vital conversation about MPs’ safety. Labour’s Stephen Timms was stabbed at a surgery in 2010 and Labour’s Jo Cox was murdered before holding a surgery in 2016. The Commons Speaker, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, has said MPs’ security will be reviewed in the wake of Amess’ death.
Cox’s husband Brendan tweeted: ‘This brings everything back. The pain, the loss, but also how much love the public gave us following the loss of Jo. I hope we can do the same for David now.’ The attack has served as a reminder for many of how vital it is we protect MPs, for the sake of our democracy.
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