Every day, I hear appalling stories of the abuse suffered by people who step forward to represent their communities and serve our country. It is shocking to see the level of harassment and intimidation faced by those in our parliament, our town halls and elsewhere in public service. Every story I hear only increases my determination to stop it happening and keep those who serve safe.

The horrific murders of my friends Jo Cox and David Amess were not isolated tragedies. They sent shockwaves through parliament and our democracy. Their loss left behind grief and a fear that shapes our politics.

Robust political debate remains a vital part of our democracy – it must be protected. However, the increasing abuse faced by those in public office is not part of that discourse.

At last year’s general election, more than half of all candidates received abuse or intimidation. Nearly all current members of parliament have experienced it.

Some sitting MPs are now beginning to self-censor: changing how they go about their daily lives and how they engage with constituents, even what they say and maybe how they vote, out of concern for their safety and that of their staff and families.

The diversity of people willing to stand for election is shrinking. Some parties are already finding it harder to recruit women. They are bearing the

© The Guardian