"I don't really want guards" insists the Isle of Wight's MP, in the wake of the murder of his parliamentary colleague Sir David Amess.
Bob Seely says the idea that MPs can exist in a security bubble is a "non-starter".
Calls to improve security for politicians have intensified in the past week. It comes after Leigh-On-Sea MP, Sir Amess, was stabbed to death during a surgery for his constituents.
In light of recent events, Mr Seely told Isle of Wight Radio he doesn't intend to change how he works.
He said:
“I accept some risk in what I do. I don’t intend to exaggerate it. There are other jobs, being a police officer, soldier, or even a care worker, that come with more risk.
“I don’t really want guards, as I think it will put people off approaching me.
“The idea that MP can exist in a security bubble is a non-starter. Many of my meetings are with groups of Islanders and there is no chance that I will cancel those. In the past month I’ve attended residents’ meetings in Freshwater, Bembridge and Wellow. Members of Parliament must be accessible.
“I rely on the common sense and decency of the overwhelming majority of people.”
Mr Seely said he was more concerned with the safety of his staff.
He added:
"They do their job to help Islanders, not to be abused by a tiny minority of online or in-person trolls.
“If anyone wants to meet me, as ever, all they have to do is contact my office and make an appointment.
"When Covid struck, we held appointments online or by phone. Since Covid restrictions were lifted I have been meeting constituents online, by phone or in person again, although we do ask people to explain their issue or concern prior to meeting, as this helps me to be better prepared so I can help people better."
Paying tribute to Sir David Amess, Mr Seely described him as a "kind man":
“Many of the remarks aimed at Sir David Amess passing will focus on what a kind man he was as well as an effective MP. All this is true; he was. I find it hard to believe he was near 70. He had more energy than many years younger, and he was always interested in others. He was young at heart. May he rest in peace. The debate in Parliament yesterday was a fitting tribute, as was the service in St Margaret’s, Parliament’s parish church.”
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