MPs pay tribute to Jo Cox MP
20 June 2016
The House of Commons sat at 2.30pm on Monday 20 June 2016 to pay tribute to Jo Cox MP.
The Speaker of the House of Commons agreed to recall Parliament from recess following the death of Jo Cox, Labour MP for Batley and Spen.
The Speaker of the House of Commons opened the tributes to Jo Cox MP with the following statement:
We meet today in heart-breaking sadness but also in heart-felt solidarity. Any death in such awful circumstances is an outrage and a tragedy. Yet this death in this manner of this person, our democratically elected colleague Jo Cox, is particularly shocking and repugnant. All of us who came to know Jo during her all too short service in this House became swiftly aware of her outstanding qualities. She was caring, eloquent, principled and wise. Above all, she was filled with, and fuelled by, love for humanity. Devoted to her family, and a relentless campaigner for equality, human rights and social justice, Jo was proud to be the Member of Parliament for Batley and Spen where she had her roots, and she was determined to live life to the full. She succeeded superbly.
Jo was murdered in the course of her duty serving constituents in need. She fought for them just as she fought for others, at home and abroad, who were victims of poverty, discrimination or injustice. An attack like this strikes not only at an individual but at our freedom. That is why we assemble here, both to honour Jo, and to redouble our dedication to democracy.
The House of Lords was also recalled on Monday 20 June.
Further information
Recall of the House of Commons
Standing Order 13 gives the Speaker the authority to recall the House of Commons when it stands adjourned, if he is satisfied it is within the public interest.
Watching from the public gallery
UK residents and overseas visitors can watch proceedings in the House of Commons by visiting the public gallery.
Please note that in view of the recall of the House, Members’ tours booked for Monday 20th June are subject to change at short notice, and are likely to be restricted access or public areas only.