Labour MP Stephen Timms was stabbed twice during a routine constituency surgery in East London today. The assailant, a woman, was swiftly arrested by police at the scene. Timms, who represents East Ham, was taken to hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
The attack occurred at the MP's advice surgery in Beckton, where he was meeting with constituents. Eyewitnesses described a sudden disturbance before emergency services arrived. Police have confirmed the suspect is in custody and are treating the incident as isolated.
Political Figures Express Shock
Prime Minister David Cameron and Labour leader Harriet Harman both issued statements condemning the attack. "This is a terrible incident, and our thoughts are with Stephen and his family," said Cameron. Harman praised Timms as "a dedicated public servant" and called for calm.
History of Constituency Safety Concerns
This incident revives debates about security for MPs holding public meetings. In 2010, Timms survived another knife attack during a similar surgery. Security measures for MPs have been under review since the murder of Conservative MP David Amess in 2021.
Local residents expressed shock at the violence in their community. "Stephen is always so approachable," said one constituent. "This is devastating for our area."
Police have increased patrols around parliamentary offices while investigations continue. The motive remains unclear, though counter-terrorism officers are not currently involved.
