By Daniel Wood
Detectives are investigating threatening messages that were sent to MP Barry Sheerman, as well as two of his members of staff.
He is Huddersfield’s longest-serving MP and has held the position since 1979.
The labour politician spoke to the House of Commons on Wednesday 22nd January, telling the House he and his staff had received “some really awful death threats”.
Two men, in their twenties and thirties, have been arrested in connection to the issue and are being investigated.
MPs have been a target in recent years due to opinions on Brexit.
Mr Sheerman said while addressing the Commons in a discussion on the Prevent programme, which is aimed at rooting out extremism in communities: “[May I] give a plug for the quality of work of my local police in delivering the Prevent programme and in supporting Members of Parliament?
“I know lots of Members have received that support, and I hope it can continue, but may I thank the people who supply it to Members?”
His reveal over the threats follow a long line of MPs speaking out about abuse they have received, both in-person and online.
Former Dewsbury MP Paula Sherriff revealed last year that she had faced a bombardment of messages relating to her stance on Brexit and even her weight, which has also lead to death threats.
These threats carry even more weight after the tragic murder of Jo Cox.
Jo Cox was a Labour MP who had only served for 13 months as Labour MP for Batley and Spen when she was murdered by Neo-Nazi Thomas Mair.
Abuse has reached such a level that the police felt the need to create a special unit called PLAIT – the parliamentary liaison and investigations team – dedicated to dealing with potential attacks on MPs.
Police Statement
A West Yorkshire Police spokesperson said on Friday: “Police investigating a report of malicious communications from business premises in Huddersfield earlier this month have arrested two men as part of continuing enquiries.
“Two men ages 29 and 38 were arrested on suspicion of making threats and have been released on bail pending further investigation.”