

Meeting them where they are: a British MP’s murder
Oct 19, 2021
Joe Rockman, Britain correspondent for The Economist, delves into the tragic murder of Sir David Amess, highlighting the dangers faced by British MPs during constituency surgeries. He discusses the critical balance between public engagement and safety in an increasingly volatile political climate. The conversation also touches on innovative research in the fight against drug-resistant tuberculosis, emphasizing new methods for detecting mutations. Additionally, Rockman explores the surprising cultural resurgence of Andy Warhol's art in Iran amidst political tensions.
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Sir David Amess's Local Focus
- Sir David Amess, a long-standing MP, focused on local issues.
- He championed causes like animal welfare, fuel poverty, and endometriosis, inspired by constituents' concerns.
Recurring Attacks on MPs
- Attacks on MPs during constituency surgeries aren't new.
- Jo Cox's murder in 2016 and other similar incidents highlight the risks.
Constituency Surgeries as Social Work
- Constituency surgeries allow MPs to directly address voters' concerns, acting like social workers.
- People raise issues like asylum claims, antisocial behavior, and potholes.