Dozens of Labour MPs have had their security ramped up in recent weeks amid continuing threats and following the shocking killing of Jo Cox. Sky News understands many MPs have recently been issued with personal alarms – “lone walker devices” which can be carried at all times, are GPS enabled and can be activated to allow police to listen to and record conversations. Several similar devices have also been offered to constituency workers following growing concerns around recent attacks on offices of MPs.
:: MP beefs up security after mock death image1
The Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority (IPSA) carried out a review of security measures and set aside additional funds for each member of parliament earlier this year.
Image Caption: Jo Cox was killed near her constituency office
It allowed MPs to apply for additional measures such as alarm systems, shutters and CCTV. There have been a spate of attacks aimed at Labour MPs over the summer, including a brick thrown through the window of Angela Eagle’s office in Wallasey following her decision to oppose Jeremy Corbyn’s leadership. Former shadow cabinet member Mary Creagh also said she was left “distressed” after a brick was thrown through her constituency office, saying there was “no excuse for violence”.
Jess Phillips, MP for Birmingham Yardley, had to improve security in her home after a picture of her dying was mocked up. Jo Cox, who was Labour MP for Batley and Spen, was shot and stabbed in Birstall, West Yorkshire, on 16 June while on constituency business. Tributes were paid to her at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool on Sunday.
Labour MPs in particular have expressed their concern during the Labour leadership campaign about the level of abuse and intimidation, particularly online, they have received from supporters of Mr Corbyn. He has repeatedly condemned the abuse, saying: “It is appalling . I have set up a code of conduct on this.”
Security measures for MPs were last updated in 2010 after the Labour MP Stephen Timms was stabbed twice in the stomach by a constituent in Beckton, east London.
Roshonara Choudhry, 21, was convicted of attempted murder.
References
- ^ :: MP beefs up security after mock death image (news.sky.com)