Ali Harbi Ali, 25, has been charged with the murder of MP Sir David Amess, the Crown Prosecution Service said.

Sir David, who represented the Southend West constituency, was fatally stabbed as he held a regular Friday meeting with constituents in Leigh-on-Sea.

The Queen has since agreed Southend will be granted city status following the murder.

Statement from Crown Prosecution Service

In a statement, Nick Price, of the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “The CPS has authorised charges against Ali Harbi Ali for the murder of MP Sir David Amess on Friday 15 October 2021. We will submit to the court that this murder has a terrorist connection, namely that it had both religious and ideological motivations.

“He has also been charged with the preparation of terrorist acts. This follows a review of the evidence gathered by the Metropolitan Police in its investigation.

“The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Mr Ali are active and that he has a right to a fair trial.”