Trial of suspect in murder of David Amess begins

Sir David Amess was murdered during a constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea. (Photo: Parliament Live)

The alleged suspect in the murder of Catholic MP Sir David Amess is due to go on trial on Monday.

The trial of Ali Harbi Ali, 26, from north London, will take place over three weeks at the Old Bailey.

Ali denies fatally stabbing Sir David, the Conservative MP for Southend West, on October 15.

He also denies preparing for terrorist acts between May 1, 2019 and September 28, 2021.

Sir David died after being stabbed multiple times as he met members of the public inside a Methodist church in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex.

Ali was detained in connection with the murder under terrorism legislation. 

He is accused of taking a train from London on the day of the attack and stabbing Sir David with a large knife inside Belfairs Methodist Church. 

Prosecutor Tom Little QC said: "As far as the Crown is concerned we are ready for the trial, having met the ambitious timetable on time."

News
Christian organisations caught up in Israeli aid agency ban
Christian organisations caught up in Israeli aid agency ban

Israel is preventing 37 aid groups from operating in Gaza unless they comply with controversial guidelines that critics say would put Palestinian staff at risk.

Netanyahu pledges support for persecuted Christians
Netanyahu pledges support for persecuted Christians

In an apparent attempt to bolster weakening US public support for Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu has said that he will join American efforts to protect persecuted Christians around the world.

9 prayers for 2026: Stepping into the New Year trusting God
9 prayers for 2026: Stepping into the New Year trusting God

A new year always brings a mixture of emotions. Some of us step into 2026 with excitement, others with uncertainty, grief or quiet weariness. Many carry hopes for change, healing, or fresh beginnings.

Mullally warns of the dangers of assisted suicide
Mullally warns of the dangers of assisted suicide

A future archbishop and two past prime ministers all agree assisted suicide is dangerous.