Stourbridge MP, Margot James, has cancelled a Q&A session this evening after the MP for Batley and Spen was shot and stabbed in her constituency this afternoon.

41-year-old Jo Cox, the Labour MP for the Yorkshire constituency, was also kicked and left lying bleeding on the pavement in Birstall, near Leeds. She remains in a critical condition in hospital. 

Ms James, MP for Stourbridge, was due to hold the debate at Chawn Hill Church this evening. She has issued a statement, saying:

"In light of today’s terrible news about Jo Cox MP, I regret to inform everyone that my EU Q&A with a Senior Cabinet Minister this evening has been cancelled. Unfortunately, this event will not be rearranged.

"I would like to send my very best thoughts and wishes to Jo, her family and staff at this tragic time, and I do hope that she makes a full and speedy recovery."

The shooting is believed to have taken place as she came out of the town's library where she had been holding an advice surgery and meeting constituents.

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