Tributes to ‘perfect’ Jo as accused gives name in court as ‘death to traitors, freedom for Britain’
PSYCHIATRIC tests have been ordered on the man charged with the murder of Jo Cox MP after he gave his name as “death to traitors, freedom for Britain” in court yesterday.
Thomas Mair, from West Yorkshire, appeared at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London to hear the murder, firearms and assault charges being brought against him following the death of the 41-yearold Labour politician.
Mair, an unemployed gardener who was born in Kilmarnock, refused to give his correct name to the court and repeated “death to traitors, freedom for Britain” when asked a second time.
The move prompted Deputy Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot to order that Mair should see a psychiatrist.
The 52-year-old Mair, who wore a grey jumper, tracksuit bottoms and black shoes, remained silent when asked his address and date of birth.
Mair was not required to enter a plea at court and his lawyer Keith Allen said there was no indication of what plea would be given.
He also told the court that legal aid has been applied for.
Miss Arbuthnot ordered that Mair be remanded in custody and he will be held at the top-security Belmarsh Prison in London.
The deputy chief magistrate suggested that a psychiatric report should be prepared, saying: “Bearing in mind the name he has just given, he ought to be seen by a psychiatrist.”
Mair – who is charged with murdering Mrs Cox, grievous bodily harm against a pensioner who tried to help her, possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence and possession of a knife – is due to appear at the Old Bailey for a bail hearing.
Meanwhile, Jo’s sister described the MP as “perfect” during an emotional visit to the scene of her death.
Kim Leadbeater, her parents and other family members yesterday viewed the huge floral display in Birstall, West Yorkshire in tribute to Mrs Cox.
It is just yards from where the MP