Tributes being paid to 'kind & thoroughly decent' MP David Amess
The 69-year-old died after being stabbed earlier today
Last updated 24th May 2022
Tributes are being paid to MP Sir David Amess who died earlier today after being stabbed while talking to constituents in Essex.
The 69-year-old had been an MP since 1983, and was fatally injured at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex midday on Friday.
A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder.
Many politicians have paid tribute to Sir David, calling him a kind & thoroughly decent man:
The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson said in a statement that Mr Amess was "one of the kindest, nicest, most gentle people in politics",
Former Conservative prime minister David Cameron tweeted: “This is the most devastating, horrific & tragic news.
“David Amess was a kind & thoroughly decent man – & he was the most committed MP you could ever hope to meet.
Another former Conservative Prime Minister, Theresa May tweeted that today was a "tragic day for democracy":
MP Tracey Crouch tweeted that the news made her feel sick and that she would miss Sir David:
Many other figures, from within politics and from outside Westminster were paying tribute.
Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey tweeted: “This is tragic and horrible news. My thoughts are with David’s wife and children, the wider family, friends and David’s community.
“A truly terrible day for British politics but most importantly of all our prayers are with all the people who loved David.”
Health Secretary Sajid Javid tweeted: “Devastated to learn of Sir David Amess’ murder. A great man, a great friend, and a great MP killed while fulfilling his democratic role.
“My heart goes out to Julia, his family, and all who loved him.
“Let us remember him and what he did with his life.”
Chancellor Rishi Sunak also paid tribute:
The Jo Cox Foundation also published a statement via Twitter:
Neighbouring MPs and local organisations have heaped praise on Mr Amess:
Will Quine, MP for Colchester tweeted: "Heartbroken by the tragic news of our friend and colleague Sir David Amess".
"A lovely, gentle, kind man with public service at his core. We have lost a great man".
"My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, parliamentary team and Southend West constituents".
James Duddridge is the MP for Rochford and Southend East:
Duncan Baker MP for North Norfolk tweeted:
"I am devastated to hear of the news of the murder of Sir David Amess. He was the sweetest, kindest man".
"My thoughts and condolences are with his family, colleagues, and constituents at this very sad time".
West Suffolk MP has also paid tribute to Sir David Amess, who he’s described on Twitter as his mentor when he arrived in Parliament:
Denise Rossiter, Chief Executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce said in a statement that he was "shocked" to hear about the attack. He went on to say:
"Whatever work we do we should all be able to do it without fear of being physically attacked and that includes our Members of Parliament".
"On behalf of Essex Chambers of Commerce I would like to extend the sympathies of myself and our membership to Sir David’s wife and family. His voice on behalf of the residents and businesses of Southend will be missed.”
Therese Coffey, MP for Suffolk Coastal and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions tweeted:
James Wild MP North West Norfolk tweeted:
"Such terrible and devastating news about Sir David Amess. He was such a warm, kind, and generous man. A tragic loss and my thoughts are with his family and all his many friends" .
Priti Patel MP for Witham and Home Secretary also took to tweet to offer her condolences: