A coroner will officially open an inquest into the death of Ann Widdecombe on Tuesday. The 78-year-old former Conservative MP was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on July 9 having suffered serious injuries. Police believe she was the victim of a targeted attack.
Arrest and Investigation
A 28-year-old white British man arrested on suspicion of her murder on July 11 remains in custody. Two days after the arrest, counter-terrorism police took over the investigation and further arrested the man on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. Terrorism laws allow a suspect to be held for up to seven days initially, with extensions possible up to 14 days. The initial seven-day period is expected to expire on Monday evening.
Inquest Hearing
The inquest hearing is scheduled at County Hall in Exeter at 10am on Tuesday. The coroner will formally open proceedings into Widdecombe's death, which occurred the day before her body was discovered.
