Dumbarton’s MP Martin Docherty-Hughes said the tragic death of Sir David Amess is a “direct attack on parliamentary democracy”.

The SNP politician for West Dunbartonshire confirmed cops have been in touch following Friday’s incident to ensure his surgeries are “as safe and secure as possible”.

Sir David, the MP for Southend West, was stabbed to death in a horrific daylight incident as he was meeting constituents at a regular meeting in the Essex town.

The 69-year-old was treated by paramedics but sadly died at the scene.

Friday’s terrifying incident has sparked fresh concerns for the safety of elected representatives.

Police Scotland sent its condolences and assured there is “no specific threat to Scotland”.

Messages of support have flooded in from MSPs representing Dumbarton and Vale of Leven.

Jackie Baillie decided to go ahead with a planned surgery in Helensburgh and Dumbarton just hours after news broke of the vicious blade attack on her colleague.

She said: “There are a number of measures provided at parliament and in our constituency offices to try to protect MSPs and our staff.

“The truth is that our jobs are all about contact with people and that is a basic cornerstone of our democracy.”

Pam Gosal, Scottish Conservative MSP, mirrored her Labour colleague’s sentiments and said she was “speechless”.

She added: “Security upgrades to constituency or regional offices are available following Friday’s tragic events.”

The Scottish shadow justice secretary Jamie Greene said the brutal attack has “re-opened the debate” on elected politicians’ safety.

He said: “It’s difficult to put into words how senseless this act was against a colleague who was selflessly carrying out his duties as an MP.”

Katy Clark MSP described Friday’s events as “barbaric and senseless”.

She said: “These attacks and plots raise further questions about the political climate in this country, compared to other countries where representatives meeting people at public meetings is the norm.”

Adding to the tributes was Scottish Labour’s Neil Bibby who said: “We are united in shock at the tragic killing.”

A West Dunbartonshire Council spokesperson said: “At the start of every term of office, all elected members are issued with safety guidance by Police Scotland.

“This guidance incorporates members surgeries and is discussed as an integral part of new members’ induction training so everyone is aware.”

Provost William Hendrie added: “Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the family.”

The Prime Minister led tributes to the “much loved” MP in The House of Commons on Monday.