As I travelled from West Sussex to Westminster on Monday it was hard knowing that David Amess MP – a man whom I have known for 30 years - is not amongst us with his cheerful smile, his keenness to press upon his colleagues the details of his latest campaign or to offer his support and advice. As so many have said, he was one of the nicest and most charming people you could ever meet. He lost his life doing the job he loved - serving his constituents, a role he performed with distinction for nearly four decades. His loss is all of our loss. It is unutterably sad.
I first knew David at a very different time of life when I was first interested in politics. As a much younger MP he was a great regular on the speaker circuit and would always find time to talk afterwards to all and for as long as they wanted.
Since first being elected two years ago I have been genuinely taken aback by the cynicism from many in the media towards those who serve in Parliament and the intemperate language used by some with a different point of view. The ‘gotcha’ style of journalism that can’t bear to simply report the facts and the torrent of abusive comments on social media – often anonymous or behind the cloak of some self-appointed and unelected ‘campaign’ group. Whilst the police need to get to the bottom of this particular incident, each hateful utterance takes us closer to legitimising attacks on those who put themselves forward as our elected representatives. By contrast, over this weekend I have received so many positive and supportive messages from constituents including those who hold all shades of opinions.
I am determined this senseless act will not prevent me continuing to support my constituents in whichever way is most convenient to them.
Despite being a regular part the diary – which often takes place on weekends as well as weekdays – it is rarely covered in the political media. Constituency surgeries are one of the most rewarding parts of the job, to help solve people’s problems or to learn first-hand about local issues which need attention.
In the brave words of Sir David’s family who released their own statement over the weekend: “He was a patriot and a man of peace. So, we ask people to set aside their differences and show kindness and love to all. This is the only way forward. Set aside hatred and work towards togetherness. Whatever one's race, religious or political beliefs, be tolerant and try to understand.”
