Hampshire police 'reassure' MPs over security following fatal stabbing of Sir David Amess MP

Hampshire’s crime commissioner Donna Jones said officers were ‘assessing what more needs to be done’ after the Essex MP was killed at a constituency surgery.

It comes after home secretary Priti Patel ordered police to review security arrangements for MPs so they can continue to work meeting the public.

In a statement, Conservative Ms Jones, a former Portsmouth City Council leader, said: ‘The whole country has been shocked by this awful event, and it has left many of those elected to represent the public feeling concerned for their safety and the safety of their staff.

‘Hampshire Constabulary has made contact with all MPs, and are assessing what more needs to be done to reassure MPs to enable them to continue their important work in their constituencies.

‘By standing together in condemning the attacks on any democratically elected individual, we reaffirm that regardless of political affiliation, intimidation, aggression or violence will never be accepted.’

A 25-year-old man is being held under the Terrorism Act following Sir David’s fatal stabbing.

Ms Jones added: ‘Following the horrific death of Sir David Amess, my heartfelt thoughts and condolences go out to his family and friends.

‘This appalling attack is not only a human tragedy, but a direct attack on our democracy.’

Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage ran a drop-in constituency surgery last week.

She told ITV she would resist any pressure to stop face-to-face meetings with constituents.

The MP said: ‘I really love the constituency aspect of my job and I would really struggle against any pressure for us not to be able to see people face to face, it's so important we can help people with their issues.’

But she acknowledged the balancing act of remaining accessible while also keeping herself and staff safe.

A Hampshire police spokeswoman said: ‘Every MP has been contacted individually by our district commanders to discuss their security arrangements, and to ensure they are aware of all advice pertaining to their personal safety and security.

‘We take the security of elected representatives incredibly seriously and we have a system in place to ensure that members of parliament receive the right advice and support around their security which includes discussions around arrangements for any events they are planning to attend in the coming days, so the appropriate advice can be provided. These conversations are ongoing.

‘We encourage MPs to immediately report any security concerns to us in order to keep themselves, their staff and members of the public attending surgeries safe.

‘Funding is available through the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority for security needs based on threat assessments made by police.’

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