Sir Keir Starmer has declared that “we must do more to defend our democracy” following the murder of Ann Widdecombe, as Reform UK called for additional funding for MP security. The outgoing Prime Minister described it as “chilling” that three serving or former MPs had lost their lives during his 11 years in Parliament.
Prime Minister’s Response at Final PMQs
Speaking at his final Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir said: “I believe we must do more to defend our democracy. I have tasked officials across government to identify the best mechanisms for taking this work forward, so it can move as quickly as possible. And I hope the whole House can unite behind that in the months ahead.”
The former Tory minister was a senior figure in Reform UK at the time of her death. Sir Keir noted that he had contacted the leaders of the opposition and Reform to express condolences and to act in a cross-party manner, acknowledging the hurt felt across political families.
Tory Leader Pays Tribute
Tory leader Kemi Badenoch opened PMQs by honouring Widdecombe, who was murdered last week. Badenoch expressed gratitude to Sir Keir for his statement on Friday, describing Widdecombe as “a woman of high principle, profound beliefs with a wicked sense of humour.” She added: “She changed her faith from Anglican to Catholic, and from the Conservative Party to the Brexit Party, but she always remained part of the Conservative family. You may not always have agreed with her, but Ann Widdecombe was a woman who said what she meant, and meant what she said. Hers was an honesty that made our politics better. Her wit and forthrightness sat alongside a deep humanity and decency.”
Badenoch recalled Widdecombe’s phrases: “We need less political correctness, and more political courage. If we deny our culture, become nothing and everything, that weakens us. It is a truth universally unacknowledged at Westminster that there is life after politics.”
Reform UK Calls for More Security Funding
In the aftermath of Widdecombe’s murder, Reform UK demanded extra funding for MPs’ security. The party argued that the current measures are insufficient to protect elected representatives, especially those who have held prominent positions or faced threats. The call adds pressure on the government to act swiftly on security enhancements.
Sir Keir’s pledge to identify the best mechanisms for defending democracy came as MPs across the spectrum expressed shock and grief. The Prime Minister emphasized the need for unity in the months ahead to ensure the safety of parliamentarians and the integrity of the democratic process.
