The family of murdered MP Sir David Amess has criticised the home secretary's rejection of their call for a public inquiry, describing the decision as 'insulting' and 'adding salt on to an open wound'. Yvette Cooper wrote to Julia and Katie Amess stating that it was difficult to see how an inquiry would go beyond the terrorist's trial and a recent Prevent learning review.
At a press conference, Katie Amess expressed anger and sadness, accusing those who claimed to be friends of her father of 'fobbing us off'. The family had hoped a public inquiry would reveal failures by the previous government after Ali Harbi Ali, who was once referred to Prevent, was able to murder Sir David in 2021.
Cooper will instead appoint an independent reviewer to examine existing findings. In a statement, Lady Amess urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to reconsider before a scheduled meeting on Wednesday. She stressed the need for accountability to protect public servants and prevent future failures.
The killer, inspired by Islamic State, was given a whole-life sentence. Cooper's letter also rejected a request to resume the coronial inquest, as the coroner believed no additional questions remained unanswered. The family said they would continue to plead for a proper inquiry.
