Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has offered Nigel Farage a meeting with the head of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), the independent Home Office body responsible for managing security of public figures, following concerns over the safety of Reform UK MPs after the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe.
Security meeting offered
Speaking in the House of Commons, Mahmood said: "I recognise the particular concern that the Reform Party will feel today, and of course Nigel Farage, the party's leader. I'm happy to offer a meeting for Mr Farage with the chair of Ravec, the independent body within the Home Office that manages the security of those in public life."
She added: "I will also be looking at what security guidance can be provided to former members of Parliament, which I hope to work with you on Mr Speaker, as well as those who serve a party outside of this place."
Widdecombe murder investigation
Ann Widdecombe, 78, a former Conservative minister and ex-Reform UK spokeswoman, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday morning after sustaining serious injuries. Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTP) said a 28-year-old white British man in custody has been re-arrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism after "new information and evidence has come to light" during the investigation.
Farage's remarks and security response
Reform leader Nigel Farage faced criticism for comments made to the press in Devon after paying tribute to Widdecombe on Saturday. He told reporters he believed the attack was "premeditated murder" and noted a car had appeared on her drive at around 12.25pm on Wednesday. "I don't think it pays at this moment in time to speculate," he also said. Farage claimed Reform had checked emails for patterns of abuse directed at Widdecombe but found nothing.
Reform UK MPs have been provided with round-the-clock security protection, paid for by the party, amid fears of similar attacks following Widdecombe's death.
