Handbook warns new MPs to be ‘on guard’

NEW MPs have been told to be “on guard” when they answer the door or get into cars amid heightened fears of an attack a year after Jo Cox’s murder.

Politicians were this week told to install fences two metres high around their houses and locate a place they can hide securely while waiting for police.

They were also urged to agree a “key phrase” with staff that can be uttered during meetings with constituents in case an “emergency” develops.

The advice is contained in a 34-page handbook on safety and security issued to all new MPs as they arrived in Parliament after the election.

A section of the handbook concerning security at home states: “Be aware of your surroundings and encourage your family and staff to do the same.

“This makes it easier to spot unusual or suspicious behaviour. Recognise situations where you are vulnerable and be on your guard.” The advice is a reflection of the heightened concerns a year after the killing of Ms Cox, the Labour MP for Batley and Spen murdered by a far-Right fanatic.

This weekend a series of events across the country are being carried out to commemorate Ms Cox’s belief that “we have more in common”.

The events, called The Great Get Together, have seen politicians from different parties put aside their political differences in a message of unity.