Conservative MP Sir David Amess dies after stabbing in constituency

Essex police have said that counter-terrorism officers will lead the investigation into the killing of Sir David Amess, although they stressed they were continuing to “keep an open mind” about the motive.

As tributes poured in from fellow MPs, the prime minister said Sir David had an “outstanding record of passing laws to help the most vulnerable”, adding “our hearts are full of shock and sadness”.

While flags outside parliament are being flown at half mast.