Face-to-face constituency surgeries held by Luton North MP Sarah Owen have been suspended following a series of security incidents over the past three weeks.
The Labour MP said she had taken the decision reluctantly after three separate incidents raised concerns about the safety of her staff and residents attending the sessions. As a result of the incidents, two men have been arrested, while a third incident on the most recent surgery day forced the session to be halted.
Ms Owen said alternative ways for constituents to contact her office would be arranged while in-person meetings remain suspended.
Posting on Facebook, she wrote: “As a result of 3 security incidents in the last 3 weeks, I have to suspend face to face surgeries.
“I resent having to do this but until I can be assured that my team and those who attend my surgeries are safe, this will be have to be the case. Alternatives for direct contact will be arranged.”
The MP said the decision had been difficult because meeting residents directly has always been an important part of her role.
She said: “Something wonderful about British society is being lost because of the dehumanisation of others.
“I pride myself on being an accessible MP and love meeting residents. The impact that threats to safety have on democracy means an increasing tension between accessibility and safety – which risks us going down the American route of politicians even further away from people. I don’t want that.”
Ms Owen added that she remained committed to representing residents in her constituency despite the disruption.
She said: “I will always be there for residents and deliver for Luton North – I will continue to serve our town. Luton is my home and no one is going to stop me loving it or my chance to represent the wonderful people in our town.”
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