David Amess murder: Suffolk MP says security has improved one year on
Peter Aldous' has been speaking one year on from the murder of Southend West MP Sir David Amess
Last updated 15th Oct 2022
A Suffolk MP says security for politicians has been stepped up, a year on from the murder of Sir David Amess
Amess, the former Conservatives MP for Southend West, was fatally stabbed on October 15 2021.
The 69-year-old father of five was attacked by Ali Harbi Ali, at the Belfairs Methodist Church Hall in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.
Ali has since been sentenced to a whole-life prison term in April.
Waveney's Peter Aldous MP, has urged Parliament to ensure that his staff, and others, continue to receive a good level of personal security when doing their job.
He says the right measures are in place for him and his colleagues and that the right steps have been taken.
"From my perspective the support is there. The teams up in Westminster, the speaker, Lindsay Hoyle is very mindful of this.
"I think it's his number one priority. And from what I can see what we want, what we ask for is listened to and provided.
"We've looked closely at our measures we have in place and we have strengthened them up as necessary.
"From my perspective, it's very important that I do carry on doing my job and going around the constituency and so I haven't felt intimidated in that perspective.
"I think one is more cautious and wary."
He also says Parliament must ensure that the same level of security is given to MPs staff as well.
"They are the first port of call whether it's people (who) call into the office, people who ring up.
"It can be a particularly challenging time for them. And it's important that they are provided with the support they need to do what can be a pretty demanding job at times.
"I get the back up from the Parliamentary team which is very very good, I have to say."
Tributes for Sir David Amess have been are being given by many.