Prime Minister to lead tributes in the Commons to Sir David Amess
A special session is being held in the Commons later today.
Last updated 18th Oct 2021
The Prime Minister is set to lead tributes to Sir David Amess in the House of Commons today after his family urged people to be tolerant and “set aside hatred” in his memory.
For at least two hours, politicians will be able to share their memories of the Conservative MP for Southend West after a morning of prayers and a minute’s silence at 2.30pm.
The Speaker of the House Sir Lindsay Hoyle will make a statement before Boris Johnson moves a motion for an adjournment, which will enable parliamentarians to open the tributes session, lasting until 5.30pm.
On Sunday evening, his family described how their “hearts are shattered” after he was attacked while meeting constituents at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex on Friday.
In a statement published through the Metropolitan Police, his wife, four daughters and son said: “Strong and courageous is an appropriate way to describe David. He was a patriot and a man of peace.
“So, we ask people to set aside their differences and show kindness and love to all. This is the only way forward. Set aside hatred and work towards togetherness.
“Whatever one’s race, religious or political beliefs, be tolerant and try to understand.
“As a family, we are trying to understand why this awful thing has occurred. Nobody should die in that way. Nobody.”
Police have until Friday 22nd October to question a man arrested on suspicion of Sir David's murder.