The tragic news this week of the killing of Sir David Amess came as a shock to us all and I am devastated to have lost not only a fantastic MP but a great and very dear friend. What has happened will, undoubtedly, take some time to sink in but immediately my thoughts are with Sir David's family and his staff.
The tributes which have been paid to Sir David in recent days paint a picture of a man dedicated to making everyone's lives better. I was able to share some of my own memories in the Commons chamber on Monday. In his 38 years as a MP he was a champion for so many and I know Sir David will be missed not only by those who knew him closely but by all those he represented.
Sir David supported so many wonderful causes, never afraid to speak up when he believed it was important to do so. His campaigning on behalf of Endometriosis UK has helped raise public awareness and improve services. As a champion for Dogs Trust Sir David helped tackle the terrible issue of puppy smuggling and so much more. As a patron for The Music Man charity he helped give young people with learning difficulties a once in a lifetime experience. His passion, energy, enthusiasm and sense of humour will be sadly missed.
With a police investigation still in progress it is difficult to say more about Friday's events but it goes without saying that I wish to ensure justice is served.
Sir David was killed doing the job he loved, carrying out his duty to the people of Southend.
While MPs are perhaps most associated with Westminster it is in their constituencies the most important jobs take place. Even through the pandemic and lockdown colleagues across the House have continued to raise important issues for constituents and to provide a voice for those who have nowhere else to turn.
That work must and will continue.