St Albans MP Daisy Cooper has reacted to the fatal stabbing of Southend West MP Sir David Amess.

Mr Amess, 69, was attacked just after noon at his constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, and died from his injuries at the scene.

Essex Police said a 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder after the attack. A knife was recovered and officers are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Daisy Cooper said: “I’m shocked and truly saddened at this horrific news. I didn’t know David well, but we had chatted a few times in the parliamentary corridors about post-Grenfell fire safety issues, on which we both campaigned.

"He was friendly and funny. This is a senseless loss of life. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Harpenden MP Bim Afolami has also paid tribute: “Across Parliament, there is total shock about the events of Friday afternoon when our colleague, Sir David Amess MP, was killed at a constituency surgery.

"Sir David was a kind man, always willing to offer a wise word, give a needed piece of advice, or do a quick favour. He was a real presence, a dedicated and long-serving constituency MP, and loved by all those who knew him. My thoughts are with his family, friends and staff at this incredibly difficult time.

"Over the coming weeks there will need to be important conversations about the security of MPs and our staff, to ensure that we can continue to be as responsive and engaged in in-person activity as possible, whilst staying safe.”