MP determined to continue face-to-face meetings after tragic murder

Richard Evans, local democracy reporter

Aberconwy MP Robin Millar has vowed to keep meeting people in person in his constituency, following the murder of MP Sir David Amess.

Mr Amess, 69, was stabbed at his constituency surgery at Belfairs Methodist Church Hall in Leigh-on-Sea and was treated at the scene but died from his injuries.

The Metropolitan Police has declared the crime a terrorist attack.

Mr Millar paid tribute to his late colleague but pledged to continue offering face-to-face surgery appointments to residents, community groups and businesses.

Shocked

“My colleagues and I are shocked and saddened by the death of Sir David last Friday,” he said.

“The tributes we heard to him yesterday in Parliament, the service of Remembrance along with the outpouring of grief in his constituency, reflect how highly he was regarded by constituents and colleagues alike.

“His murder is a huge loss to us, the House, his constituents and the country – but most of all for his wife and five children. My thoughts and prayers are with them. They are also with his staff team who I know will not just be grieving for a boss but also for a dear friend.”

The Aberconwy MP continued: “I am very grateful for the many messages of condolence and support for the role of MP I have received from across the political spectrum. As the elected representative for Aberconwy in the UK parliament, I am determined to remain available and accessible to constituents.

“Aberconwy is not just the constituency that I represent  –  it is also the place that I am proud to call my home. Whether it is organised surgeries or just getting on with everyday life here – shopping and walking the dog – I am out and about in the community every week, meeting with residents, community groups and businesses.

“As the former Labour Prime Minister Gordon Brown said recently, the right response to an attack on democracy is not less democracy. So I will continue to hold in-person constituency surgeries where I can hear from people who need help the most.”