Minute of silence in Canada parliament for slain British MP

Ottawa: Canada's parliament today observed a minute of silence in memory of British MP Jo Cox, who was killed in a shock daylight street attack.

The gesture of respect was held at the opening of Question Period in the House of Commons, and was preceded by a tribute to Cox by opposition MP Nathan Cullen.

"A mom of two beautiful children, a friend, a dedicated Labour MP, a long advocate of human rights in Britain and around the world was murdered today," he said, fighting back tears.

"Jo used her voice for those who have none, she dedicated her passion to those who needed it most. She harnessed her love even for those who (allowed) hate to consume them."

The killing of Jo Cox, 41, in Birstall in northern England has thrown campaigning for the referendum on Britain's EU membership into disarray just a week before the crucial vote.

Cox was a campaigner for Britain to remain in the European Union.