Prime Minister pays respects to Sir David Amess
Boris Johnson & Sir Kier Starmer have visited Leigh-on-Sea this morning.
Last updated 16th Oct 2021
The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson and Labour Leader Sir Kier Starmer, have laid wreaths outside the church in Leigh-on-Sea, where Conservative MP, Sir David Amess was stabbed to death.
The Southend West MP was attacked yesterday (15 October) - police are treating it as a terrorist incident.
A 25-year-old man is being questioned on suspicion of murder and detectives are searching two addresses in London.
Home Secretary and Witham MP Priti Patel join the Prime Minister earlier and paid tribute to Sir David:
"He was killed doing the job that he loved, serving his own constituents as an elected, democratic member. And of course, acts of this are absolutely wrong and we cannot let that get in the way of our functioning democracy.
"David was Southend West's advocate, he was their champion. And I also say this as an Essex MP, he was a neighbour of mine, he was deeply loved and warmly regarded and respected."
The Essex Police and Crime Commissioner, Roger Hirst has also laid flowers for Sir David today.
He said:
"Following yesterday's shocking and tragic incident, this morning I joined the Prime Minister, Home Secretary, Speaker of the Commons, Leader of the Opposition and local leaders to pay my respects to Sir David.
"It was a sombre moment of reflection to remember a man who worked so hard for his community, who served those he represented passionately and made a real difference for Southend."
"My heart goes out to his family and friends and also his constituents at this difficult time."
"As we try and come to terms with these tragic events it is important we remember the man he was and contribution he made. A true public servant."
A second vigil has been held in Leigh-on-Sea this morning, led by Father Jeff Woolgough who said to the congregation:
"This man who'd become a member of our own family, through his goodness and all the things he's done for our community, has now left us in the most tragic of circumstances."
Following the fatal attack on Sir David, every MP can today expect to be contacted by their Chief Constable.
In a statement, the National Police Chiefs Council said:
“In light of yesterday's tragic attack every MP will be contacted individually by Op Bridger representatives in their local force to discuss their security arrangements, and to ensure they are aware of all advice pertaining to their personal safety and security. They will also speak to MPs about security arrangements for any events they are planning to attend in the coming days, so the appropriate advice can be provided.
“We encourage MPs to immediately report any security concerns to their local police force in order to keep themselves, their staff and members of the public attending surgeries safe. Funding is available through the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority for security needs based on threat assessments made by police.”
Sir David Amess died yesterday after being fatally stabbed during a constituency meeting in Leigh-on-Sea, he was 69. He leaves behind his wife and five children.
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