Police investigating the murder of Ann Widdecombe are examining whether a leftwing or single-issue cause motivated the killing, the Guardian has learned. Detectives are focusing on whether hatred of Widdecombe's strong views, including on homosexuality, or extreme hostility to the Reform UK party played a role. The investigation has been taken over by counter-terrorism police (CTP), who rearrested the suspect on terrorism charges.
Counter-Terrorism Police Take Over
On Monday, CTP assumed control from Devon and Cornwall Police after searches at the suspect's home and other intelligence suggested a possible political motivation. Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor, head of counter-terrorism policing, confirmed at a press conference on Tuesday that Widdecombe was killed in a “targeted attack.” He stated, “We are working to understand the planning and preparation and the motivation that sits behind the attack.”
Investigating LASIT and Mental Health
Investigators are considering whether leftwing, anarchist, and single-issue terrorism (LASIT) influenced the suspect's alleged motivation, but remain open to new evidence. Sources stress the inquiry is at an early stage, and initial assumptions may change. The investigation is also looking into the suspect's history of mental health and neurodivergence. Taylor added that a line of inquiry includes whether a TV appearance by Widdecombe on TalkTV on the morning of the attack may have motivated the killing. Police believe she was attacked at about 12:30pm on the same day at her home near Haytor Vale, Dartmoor.
Political Reactions and Security Concerns
Reform UK's Treasury spokesperson Robert Jenrick criticized the government for not offering Nigel Farage a security meeting earlier, claiming it only happened “as a result” of Widdecombe's death. Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Jenrick said, “The government chose not to give Nigel the security that he needed. They now have, as a result of Ann Widdecombe's appalling murder, offered him a meeting… We are not mainstream politicians. We are politicians who are fighting the establishment every single day. We're not backing down.” His comments followed reports that Farage had previously rejected a state-funded security package.
Treasury minister Lucy Rigby described the threats faced by politicians as reflecting a “horrific” climate of abuse and intimidation. “There is just this increasing climate of abuse and intimidation, including via social media, and in the very worst cases, extreme violence,” she said. Rigby added, “I think it's really troubling – more than troubling; it's pretty horrific, really – this increased culture of violence that affects those in public life.”
Police Response and Suspect Details
Devon and Cornwall Police and Crime Commissioner Alison Hernandez defended her force's handling of the inquiry, stating, “It is not unusual that in a fast-paced investigation, more information comes to light that changes the nature or the character of what the police are dealing with.” She apologized for disruption caused by the major operation, noting that some residents experienced delays in routine services. The suspect, a 28-year-old man from Rotherham, was arrested on Saturday on suspicion of murder. He is believed to have driven about 270 miles to Widdecombe's home, inflicted catastrophic injuries, and then returned to South Yorkshire. Police believe he acted alone and are not seeking anyone else. The suspect was not known to South Yorkshire police nor on the Prevent counter-terror scheme. While CTP is investigating, the killing has not been formally designated as a terrorist attack; that decision rests with the senior national coordinator for counter-terrorism.
