MPs could get bodyguards because of threat of extremists wanting to hurt them

05 February 2024 , 17:28

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Rishi Sunak said there may well be an argument for MPs getting extra security (Image: PA)

Bodyguards could be provided to protect MPs because of concerns about their safety, Rishi Sunak has said.

The PM suggested he was open to the idea after Tory MP Mike Freer announced he will stand down at the next election after a series of death threats and an arson attack on his constituency office.

Some MPs such as the PM, Defence Secretary, Home Secretary and Northern Ireland Secretary already have protection officers as routine.

In an interview with Piers Morgan on TalkTV, Mr Sunak said: "I was actually speaking to Mike just yesterday and it's awful what he has had to endure - his office essentially being attacked and set on fire, the threats he has received - and everyone, regardless of the political party that they are a member of, gets into this because they believe in public service and they want to make a difference - and they should be able to do that without fearing for their personal safety.

"Now, actually, the Houses of Parliament have put in place over the years more things to protect MPs and security in their offices, and at their homes, and that is something that is constantly being reviewed. " He said it was necessary also to "look at the ideology that is driving that kind of behaviour and that's making sure that we tackle it at its root".

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Mr Sunak added: "What we can't have is that kind of extremist ideology festering in communities, on our streets, that leads people to behave in that particular way, and I think that is equally as important." Asked if MPs having a security guard might be a "good idea", he said "there may well be an argument for that" but that it was a matter for the security services and police.

Mr Sunak said that he was “very fortunate” to have an “incredible team” of protection officers that keep him safe. “People may remember, people came and protested at my house which is obviously slightly unsettling,” he added. “And that is unnerving, because you know when your home is invaded in that way you feel very vulnerable. But it isn’t just about me, it actually goes to a broader thing, I want my two girls to grow up in a society that’s safe.

“I am quite focused on putting more police officers on the street, crucially giving them the tough powers they need to confiscate knives off people - which is really important - make sure we have things like CCTV and street lighting so you know girls like mine when they grow up and women can feel safe when they walk home at night. Again, that is the type of society… that I want us to have.”

John Stevens