Fellow MPs send messages of support to Jo Cox

Friends and colleagues of Labour MP Jo Cox have reacted with shock after a shooting left her in hospital with serious injuries.

Ms Cox, 41, was airlifted to hospital after being shot and stabbed outside Birstall Library just before 1pm today.

Police said a 52-year-old man was arrested after armed officers were called.

Another man in his 70s was slightly injured in the attack.

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Campaigning for next Thursday’s EU referendum was suspended after news of the attack on Ms Cox.

Fellow MPs have expressed their shock on Twitter.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: “Utterly shocked by the news of the attack on Jo Cox. The thoughts of the whole Labour Party are with her and her family at this time.”

Morley and Outwood MP Andrea Jenkyns said: “I am very upset by this appalling incident involving my constituency neighbour and colleague Jo Cox. We are all praying for her and thoughts and prayers go out to her family at this incredibly difficult time.

“Jo is a hugely committed campaigner and advocate for Batley and Spen and the causes she supports.

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“No MP should be at risk of attack. MPs put themselves in the public eye to stand up for their constituents and their beliefs and should not be put at risk from doing so. British politics is better than this.”

Wakefield MP Mary Creagh said: “Thoughts, prayers, love and strength to wonderful, brilliant, dear Jo Cox MP and her husband and children.”

Dewsbury MP Paula Sherriff said: “Devastated to hear the horrific news about @Jo_Cox1. Praying that she will pull through.”

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Very concerned about reports Jo Cox has been injured. Our thoughts and prayers are with Jo and her family.”

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Aleks Lukic, Chairman of UKIP Dewsbury, Batley and Spen branch, said: ”We are horrified to hear of the attack on Jo Cox MP this afternoon, which defies all sense. We have immediately suspended all referendum campaigning. Mrs Cox is a respected, principled MP. All our hopes and prayers go out to her and her family.”

West Yorkshire Police said in a statement: “At 12.53 today, police were called to a report of an incident on Market Street, Birstall, where a woman in her 40s had suffered serious injuries and is in a critical condition.

“A man in his late 40s to early 50s nearby also suffered slight injuries.

“Armed officers attended and a 52-year-old man was arrested in the area. There are no further details at present.

“Police presence in the area has been increased as a reassurance to the community.”

Ms Cox is in a critical condition at Leeds General Infirmary.