Family’s upset as man ‘filmed spitting on murdered MP’s statue’

Spokesman Radd Seiger said the family welcomed the police investigation.

“David believed passionately in freedom of expression and the right to disagree,” he said.

“He understood that people would hold different political views, sometimes profoundly so.

“But disagreement should never be an excuse for abandoning basic standards of decency and respect.

“David was murdered because of the extremism of another individual. Five years on, his family continues to live with the consequences of that terrible loss.”

Witham MP Dame Priti Patel said: “This is a sickening and disgusting act committed by a vile individual.

“Sir David was respectful, kind and a powerful advocate for free speech and expression. He always debated political differences with dignity.

“To disrespect his life and legacy in this way is dreadful.”

Sir David, 69, had been an MP since 1983 and was married with five children. He was the second serving MP to be killed in five years, following the murder of Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016.

His statue was unveiled near the Chalkwell Lifeguards base in April 2024.

Do you have a story suggestion for Essex? Contact us below.