Wirral's independent local news website
Wirral MPs have expressed their sadness following the murder of Conservative MP for Southend West, Sir David Amess. Sir David died after being stabbed at his constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.
Essex Police said that a 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder after the attack and that they had recovered a knife and were not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.
MP for Birkenhead, Mick Whitley said, “Like so many from across the political spectrum and from all our communities I was devastated at the news of Sir David Amess’ murder. To be killed at his regular MP’s surgery while trying to help his constituents in Southend West is abominable. It has shaken me and many others to the core.
“I had the privilege of meeting Sir David when I attended a Fire Safety event with him and others in Stafford on 9 September. We were working together on the All Party Parliamentary Group for Fire Safety – a vital area of work, especially in the aftermath of the Grenfell fire.
“Sir David was passionate about improving fire safety and we were looking forward to travelling together to the Fire Service College in Moreton–in–Marsh, Gloucestershire on 28 October. It was an awful irony that on the morning of his death I received the train tickets for this trip to the College.
“When we travelled from London to Stafford together it soon became clear that he was a lovely man with a keen sense of humour, a passion for range of good, causes such as animal welfare, a commitment to fairness and great taste in music. Our acquaintance was brief, but as with many others who met him, it was a rewarding experience.
“This is a sombre time but, as David’s family have said, communities need to come together in peace, kindness and love. We must never allow hate and division to destroy our communities, to undermine what we all have in common.
“This was a terrible tragedy – especially for David’s family, close friends and his staff. My thoughts and condolences are with them at this deeply sad time.”
Angela Eagle, MP for Wallasey said, “This is appalling – my thoughts are with his family friends and staff at this most difficult of times.”
Wirral West MP, Margaret Greenwood said, “Desperately sad and shocking news about Sir David Amess. My thoughts are with David’s family, friends and his staff at this devastating time.”
Alison McGovern, MP for Wirral South, said, “All love and care to his family. David was a very kind man and let that kindness be the way now.”
Ellesmere Port and Neston MP, Justin Madders said, “A warm-hearted man with a great sense of humour, a passionate advocate for his constituency and someone who was well-liked and respected across the House. A genuinely decent man who epitomised what the best MPs should be. RIP David.”
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, “our hearts are full of shock and sadness” at the loss of “one of the kindest” people in politics.
Sir David, 69, had been an MP since 1983 and was married with five children.