BRADFORD district MPs and political figures have spoken of their shock at the fatal stabbing of a Conservative MP.

Conservative MP Sir David Amess has died after being stabbed multiple times at a meeting with constituents.

The suspect, a 25-year-old man, has been arrested on suspicion of murder after the Tory veteran was stabbed several times during a constituency surgery in Essex.

The 69-year-old victim, who has been an MP since 1983, was fatally injured at Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex at noon today.

The father-of-five is the second sitting MP to be killed in such circumstances in five years, following the death of Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016 as she attended a constituency surgery.

Shipley MP Philip Davies said: "I am in utter shock about David’s death and my heart goes out to his family.

"David was a very good friend and one of the nicest people I have ever met. He always had a positive outlook and was completely dedicated to serving his constituents and his constituency.

Parliament will not be the same without him. It is just horrible beyond belief.

Keighley & Ilkley MP Robbie Moore MP said: "Sir David Amess’ murder is a senseless tragedy.

"He was exceptionally kind, wonderful man, and is incredibly dedicated to his constituents in Southend.

"Sir David was doing what all MP’s do - week in, week out - serving their constituents.

"My thoughts are with his whole family, especially his wife Julia and their five children. May he rest in peace."

Following Sir David’s death earlier today, the flags at Bradford City Hall and town halls across the district have been lowered to half-mast today.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Shabir Hussain, said: “I am appalled to learn of this shocking and deplorable act; this is a very dark day for everyone.

“Our thoughts are, of course, with the family, loved ones and friends of Sir Amess at this dreadful time.”

Leader of Bradford Council, Councillor Susan Hinchcliffe, said: “I am so upset to hear of the fatal stabbing of Sir David Amess MP. It is truly shocking.

“I cannot imagine how grief-stricken his family are. My thoughts and prayers are with them.”

Bradford district councillors also reacted to Sir David's death:

 

Cllr Tim Swift, Leader of Calderdale Council, said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened by the news of the tragic death of Sir David Amess, MP for Southend West. Our thoughts and sympathies are with his friends and family.”

Meanwhile, Leeds politicians have expressed their support to Sir David Amess and his family, after the MP died following a stabbing at a constituency meeting this afternoon.

 

The internet has since seen an outpouring of support for the 69-year-old, with MPs from across Leeds offering their support for David and his family.

Leeds Central MP Hilary Benn (Lab) tweeted: "We are all deeply distressed and shocked to hear about David Amess. Thinking of you David and your family."

Member for Leeds North East Fabian Hamilton (Lab) added: "Utterly horrific news about David Amess. My thoughts are with him and his family and friends."

Emlet and Rothwell MP Alec Shelbrooke (Con) said: "Shocking news. My thoughts are with Sir David and his family, as well as his staff, who will be understandably shaken by today’s events."

Richard Burgon, who represents Leeds East for Labour, said: "Deeply shocking news about the stabbing of David Amess. My thoughts are with David, his family and his friends."

Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds East) said: "My thoughts and prayers are with David and his family."