Speaker backs review of MPS’ security after sharp rise in threats

Hoyle promises greater protections will be discussed as some back proposal for police escorts

THE Speaker of the House of Commons has called for a review into MPS’ security after the death of Sir David Amess.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle paid tribute to the MP and said discussions would take place on measures to better protect parliamentarians.

“I am shocked and deeply distressed by the killing of Sir David Amess,” he said. “David was a lovely man, devoted to his family, to Parliament and his Southend West constituency. He was well liked by members and the staff alike, and during his almost four decades here, built a reputation for kindness and generosity.

“This is an incident that will send shock waves across the parliamentary community and the whole country.

“In the coming days we will need to discuss and examine MPS’ security and any measures to be taken, but for now, our thoughts and prayers are with David’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Last night, Priti Patel, the Home Secretary, said questions were “rightly being asked about the safety of our country’s elected representatives”.

She said she would “provide updates in due course” on any safety review, adding that his death was a “senseless attack on democracy itself ”.

Since the turn of the century, attacks have been carried out against MPS with alarming regularity, adding to mounting concerns about their safety, particularly when meeting constituents one-to-one.

Last night, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, the former Tory leader, cautioned against changing MPS’ surgeries.

“We must be available,” he said. “It is the most critical bit of what makes the