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
I love Jesus, but do I need church?
I love Jesus, but do I need church?

Don’t let fear, doubt, or even pride keep you on the sidelines.

Christians react to US capture of Maduro
Christians react to US capture of Maduro

Some Christian leaders have been enthusiastic about US actions in Venezuela, while others have been more cautious.

Church community projects linked to falling antisocial behaviour and crime
Church community projects linked to falling antisocial behaviour and crime

A Croydon council estate once known locally for disorder and intimidation has seen markedly better trends in crime and antisocial behaviour over the past decade, with a new study suggesting sustained church-led community projects played a significant role.

Over a million Australians attend church each week - study
Over a million Australians attend church each week - study

New national data suggests Australia’s churches are continuing a gradual recovery in weekly attendance following the COVID-19 pandemic, while still falling short of levels seen at the turn of the millennium.