Tory MP calls for police constable to be recognised posthumously

A Tory MP who first met Constable Keith Palmer as a gunner in the military 25 years ago has called for his bravery to be recognised posthumously.

James Cleverly, who represents an Essex constituency, fought back tears as he paid tribute to the “strong and professional public servant” in the Commons yesterday.

PC Palmer, stabbed while guarding the parliamentary estate, had been a member of the Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command for 15 years.

Before that, the 48-year-old husband and father served as a soldier in the Royal Artillery.

Mr Cleverly, whose voice cracked as he spoke, said: “I would like, with your indulgence Mr Speaker, to turn for just a moment to PC Keith Palmer, whom I first met 25 years ago when he was Gunner Keith Palmer at headquarters battery, 100 Regiment Royal Artillery.

“He was a strong, professional public servant, and it was a delight to meet him here again only a few months after being elected.

“In recognition of the work that he did and that the other police officers and public servants in the House do, would the Prime Minister consider posthumously recognising his gallantry and sacrifice formally?”

Mrs May, who was in parliament at the time of Wednesday’s attack, said PC Palmer had given his country “tremendous public service” and made the “ultimate sacrifice here at the heart of our democracy”.

She added: “I can assure you that the issue you have raised will, of course, be considered in due course.”

PC Keith Palmer was described as a “tremendous public servant”.