Jo Cox murder suspect Thomas Mair declared fit to stand trial in November

The man accused of murdering Labour MP Jo Cox has been declared fit to stand trial in November. Thomas Mair, 53, is accused of shooting and stabbing of the MP for Batley and Spen outside her constituency surgery in Birstall on 16 June.

Mair, 52, from Birstall, is charged with murder, grievous bodily harm, possession of a firearm with intent to commit an indictable offence, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Mair's lawyer, Cairns Nelson, confirmed his client has been assessed by doctors and medical issues will not form part of their defence during the murder trial. Prosecutor Tom Little told the court the main issue in the trial will be "factual".

He added: "The prosecution understand that the issues will be factual, or appear to be at this stage."

Mair was due to appear via video link from Belmarsh prison, but the short preliminary hearing was held in his absence due to a technical fault.

Mair will remain in custody before his next appearance at the Old Bailey before Justice Saunders on 4 October for a plea hearing. His case is being handled under "terrorism protocols".