David Amess suspect pleads not guilty

Southend was made a city in Sir David's memory after he campaigned for this for many years. (Photo: David Amess)

The suspect in the killing of MP Sir David Amess has pleaded not guilty to his murder. 

Ali Harbi Ali, 25, appeared at the Old Bailey in London on Tuesday for a pre-trial hearing.

He denied murdering the Conservative MP on 15 October. 

He also pleaded not guilty to preparing acts of terrorism between May 2019 and September 2021.

At the end of Tuesday's hearing, Ali was remanded in custody until his trial commences in March 2022.

Sir David, 69, was stabbed to death while holding a constituency surgery at a Methodist church in Leigh-on-Sea. 

He had been an MP since 1983, and MP for Southend West from 1997 until his death this year. 

Prior to that, he had served as MP for Basildon. 

The father-of-five was also a devout Catholic and pro-life advocate.

His death was met by an outpouring of grief, with tributes paid to him from across the political spectrum. 

The Catholic Archbishop of Westminster Cardinal Vincent Nichols said his murder was "an attack on our democratic process and traditions". 

In a message after Sir David's death, the Pope praised his "devoted public service" and appealed to people to "reject the ways of violence". 

News
Iran conflict could open doors for the Gospel, says mission agency
Iran conflict could open doors for the Gospel, says mission agency

EEM is also calling for prayers for those impacted by the conflict.

War disrupts Holy Week in Jerusalem
War disrupts Holy Week in Jerusalem

The impact of the escalating conflict in the Middle East region is being felt keenly in Jerusalem.

Thousands gather for installation of Sarah Mullally as 106th Archbishop of Canterbury
Thousands gather for installation of Sarah Mullally as 106th Archbishop of Canterbury

Dame Sarah Mullally is being formally installed today as the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury and the first woman to hold the role in the Church of England’s 1,400-year history.

Church leaders condemn antisemitic ambulance attack
Church leaders condemn antisemitic ambulance attack

Christian leaders have been united in their condemnation of a firebomb attack on four ambulances operated by a Jewish charity.