Don’t let protection for MPs distance them from the electorate
SIR – What are we to make of the appalling and senseless killing of Sir David Amess?
That it happened while he was going about his lawful business on behalf of others is heartrending. But are we to go the way of having armed guards surrounding our MPs?
Politicians cannot be protected without the goodwill of the people. We should all do more to achieve this. Judith Scott Williams Waldringfield, Suffolk
SIR – Is it not time for MPs to consider the language they use when describing their political opponents, and the message it sends? Angela Rayner’s recent diatribe is just one example. Victoria Baillon
Hornblotton, Somerset
SIR – An essential and practical first step should be the installation of CCTV at the site of every surgery, and strong advertisement of its presence.
Karl Ludvigsen
Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
SIR – I am appalled at the killing of Sir David Amess, but believe it would be foolish to replace MPs’ surgeries with telephone or Zoom consultations, as has been suggested.
Direct contact with one’s MP is a cornerstone of our democracy, and should not be negotiable. Service personnel, police officers, social workers and others take similar risks on a daily basis.
Huw Baumgartner
Bridell, Pembrokeshire
SIR – Our town has lost a beloved and constant servant. With his openness and generosity of spirit, Sir David Amess turned nobody away. He came to our street last year to celebrate the 100th birthday of a resident. He had many more engagements on that day, and would have made every one seem the most important.
A kindly and unforgettable man of the people, he represented all of us, regardless of political persuasion. Barry Bond
Leigh-on-Sea, Essex
SIR – During my political career I knew three Conservative MPs who were subsequently murdered: Airey Neave, Ian Gow and Sir David Amess.
All three were distinguished and modest men totally committed to the service of the nation and their constituents.
The pointless and callous ending of their lives has deprived us of the very best.
John Pritchard
Ingatestone, Essex
SIR – Sir Keir Starmer could send a strong message by announcing that the forthcoming by-election will not be contested by Labour.
The other political parties should then follow suit.
Richard Kemm
Marseillan, Hérault, France
SIR – Surely the finest tribute to Sir David would be the granting of city status to Southend.
Edward Bacon
Beyton, Suffolk