Shabana Mahmood: “This type of criminality makes people lose faith, not just in their local area but in democracy.”

We can defeat those who mean us harm, but we are strongest when we act together.

We owe it to them and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country to ensure that those who serve at all levels receive the protection they deserve.

I can therefore announce today that I will expand, with immediate effect, police support to political figures who are not currently members of parliament.

I would not hesitate to impose further measures on other countries refusing to co-operate.