Tighter security measures urged after MP is killed
Call for vigilance as tributes paid to Sir David
Perth and Kinross politicians have been contacted by police over safety concerns following the death of Tory MP Sir David Amess.
Police Scotland’s assistant chief constable wrote to every elected member in the country advising them of security measures.
And on Monday morning ( October 18) Perth and North Perthshire SNP MP Pete Wishart took part in an all-party meeting with the Speaker of the House of Commons to discuss dangers.
Perthshire politicians have united to condemn the “senseless and tragic act of violence” and in their commitment to want to continue meeting constituents but in a safe way.
Some expressed feeling vulnerable and a need to be vigilant following the tragic death.
And local people have been urged, by the council, to report any suspicious activity.
Emergency talks were held in Westminster following the Southend West MP’s killing on Friday - whilst holding a constituency surgery - in what is being treated by police as a terrorist attack.
Following Monday’s meeting Mr Wishart said: “The appalling killing of David Amess MP has shocked everybody in the parliamentary community and as a colleague of over 20 years I will miss his good humour and company.
“The security of our democracy and safety of MPs has rightly been moved to the top of the political agenda and it is right that we consider that we do everything possible to ensure incidents like this don’t happen again.
“The police have been in touch to offer good advice and practical suggestions to ensure better office security and as a member of the House of Commons Commission I am working with colleagues to examine what more can be done.
“Direct contact with constituents and the opportunity to meet and take up issues personally is fundamental to our democracy and we should do everything possible to ensure this continues.
“This contact was violated in the most horrific of circumstances on Friday and in the next few weeks we will be considering all options to ensure how we ensure this contact can continue as safely as possible.”
Ochil and South Perthshire SNP MP John Nicolson said: “I was so shocked and saddened to read of the killing of Sir David Amess. I had many conversations with David at Westminster. A doughty defender of animal welfare, his warm nature will be missed dreadfully by colleagues.
“I want to thank constituents for all the kind and thoughtful messages my office has received since Friday’s tragic events. They are very much appreciated by my whole team.
“Surgeries have always been a vital aspect of the work of an MP, and I am keen for that to continue under all circumstances.”
Deputy first minister and Perthshire North SNP MSP John Swinney said: “This was a senseless and tragic act of violence that will justifiably shock all decent- minded people.
“Elected representatives, like all workers, should be able to do their job free from the threat of physical violence.
“The outpouring of love and affection from colleagues of all political persuasions is a clear indicator of the esteem in which Sir David was held, and how fondly he will be remembered by those who knew him. I hope that Sir David’s family can find some comfort in the heartfelt tributes that are currently being paid to him.
“This appalling act, so soon after the murder of Jo Cox, will inevitably raise questions about the safety of elected representatives. It is right that we reflect upon this issue, but it is also imperative that we remain accessible to our constituents and a presence in our local communities.”
Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser said: “This was a horrific incident and my thoughts are with Sir David Amess’ family and friends at this difficult time.
“Following the murder of Jo Cox MP a few years ago, we put additional security measures into our offices, and will be reviewing the position again. Politicians across the UK will now need to be extra vigilant.”
Fellow Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Liz Smith said: “Following the appalling circumstances of the death of Sir David Amess, l think all elected members are very grateful for the advice that is being offered by both Holyrood and the police.
“It is vitally important that all elected members and our staff feel safe when going about our parliamentary business with constituents - which, as far as l am concerned, is the most important part of the job.”
Conservative council leader Murray Lyle added: “It is very concerning that that could happen to anyone.
“I think a sudden feeling of vulnerability has been felt by all political parties.”
Over the weekend Police
Scotland assistant chief constable Steve Johnson reached out to all of Scotland’s elected members.
A spokesperson for Perth and Kinross Council said: “Security guidance and a personal safety checklist was provided to all elected members by Police Scotland via COSLA following the tragic death of Sir David Amess MP last week.
“All elected members have the right to be safe while carrying out their public duties; and we insist that if at any point they feel their personal safety is at risk they take all necessary steps to ensure they do not come to any harm and contact the police. We would also ask any members of the public who see any suspicious behaviour to contact the police immediately.”
The security of our democracy and safety of MPs has rightly been moved to the top of political agenda