PM’S SHOCK

PRIME Minister Boris Johnson said Sir David Amess was “one of the kindest, nicest, most gentle people in politics”.

Speaking on Friday evening, Mr Johnson said: “I think all our hearts are full of shock and sadness today at the loss of Sir David.”

He added: “He was one of the kindest, nicest, most gentle people in politics, and he also had an outstanding record of passing laws to help the most vulnerable, whether the people who are suffering from endometriosis, passing laws to end cruelty to animals, or doing a huge amount to reduce the fuel poverty suffered by people up and down the country.

“David was a man who believed passionately in this country and in its future.

“And we’ve lost today a fine public servant and a much-loved friend and colleague, and our thoughts are very much today with his wife, his children, and his family.”

Flags have been lowered to half-mast outside Parliament following Sir David’s death.

Former Conservative prime minister Theresa May said it was “heartbreaking”, adding: “A tragic day for our democracy.”

Former prime minister Tony Blair said he was “shocked and horrified” adding: “David and I came into Parliament together in 1983. Though on opposite political sides I always found him a courteous, decent and thoroughly likeable colleague who was respected across the House. This is a terrible and sad day for our democracy.”

Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, said there will need to be a review in the coming days around MPs’ security and any measures to be taken. He said it is important that MPs can continue to meet with their constituents and this was “a tragedy that should never have happened. “