MULHOLLAND EXPRESSES SORROW FOR TRAGIC DEATH OF JOSEPH COOK

3.48.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Wed 2nd Sep 2009

Greg Mulholland MP for Leeds North West has today spoken of his sadness at the death of Joseph Cook, a student at Leeds Metropolitan University.

It has been suggested that Mr Cook may have been murdered during a botched robbery attempt at his home.

Commenting Greg said:

"I would like to offer my sincerest sympathies to the family and friends of James after his tragic death.

The loss of someone so young is always very difficult to come to terms with especially in circumstances such as these. I have written to Vice Chancellor Geoff Hitchins at Leeds Metropolitan University to express my sorrow at this loss.

Some reports are linking this murder to a possible botched burglary attempt, I think that there is a perception amongst some criminals to see student properties as a soft target, I have written to Chief Superintendent Sir Norman Bettison to ask him what he thinks we can do to stamp out the practice of criminals targeting students.

I would like to again express my horror and sadness that this terrible event has taken place and the importance of bringing the perpetrator to justice."