Prince Charles pays tribute to Catholic MP as Southend is granted metropolis standing
Prince Charles drew comparisons between the homicide of Catholic MP Sir David Amess and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in a ceremony granting Southend-on-Sea metropolis standing.
The honour was bestowed on Southend in reminiscence of Sir David who was murdered final October. He had spent a long time campaigning for Southend to be made a metropolis.
Addressing a council assembly on Tuesday, Prince Charles recalled assembly Sir David Amess together with his spouse, the Duchess of Cornwall, in 2014.
He stated: “Throughout that go to we recall our dialog with Sir David Amess.
“I knew him after all as a famend and revered parliamentarian and efficient campaigner on many nationwide and native points. Amongst them was his passionate willpower to safe metropolis standing for Southend.
“As we speak we mark the fruits of that devoted marketing campaign.”
He added: “How all of us want we may have a good time the event with out the shadow of the dreadful occasion that took the lifetime of such a loyal public servant.”
Prince Charles’ ideas additionally turned to occasions in Ukraine, the place he stated the Russian invasion had been an act of “brutal aggression”.
The killing of Sir David, he stated, was “an assault on democracy”.
“We’re seeing those self same values below assault at present in Ukraine in essentially the most unconscionable method,” the Prince stated.
Former MP and fellow Catholic Ann Widdecombe learn out a press release on the ceremony on behalf of Sir David’s household.
“Regardless of a traumatic and tragic journey we’ve arrived on the metropolis of Southend-on-Sea. How thrilled our husband and father would have been to know Her Majesty the Queen has bestowed such an enormous honour to the individuals of Southend -on-Sea in his identify. A dream come true,” the assertion stated.
“So on his behalf, we the household want to say thanks to the superb individuals in the neighborhood who’ve achieved a lot for Southend – that is your day.
“We’re all very pleased with David and deeply honoured to simply accept the liberty of town on his behalf. The very first freedom of Southend-on-Sea ever bestowed.
“A second in historical past and a recognition of his love for Southend-on-Sea and its individuals.
“We’re after all crammed with disappointment he’s now not with us however his legacy is large and we’re so grateful to have had him in our lives and know he won’t ever be forgotten.”
Sir David was MP for Southend West from 1997 till the time of his demise. He died after being stabbed a number of instances inside Belfairs Methodist Church in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex.
Ali Harbi Ali, 25, has been charged together with his homicide and can stand trial later this month.
