Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced a review of security advice for former MPs and offered Reform UK leader Nigel Farage a meeting with the head of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec) following the death of Ann Widdecombe. The former Conservative prisons minister was found dead at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor, on Thursday, July 9, after sustaining serious injuries, and the case is now being investigated as a murder by Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP).
Home Secretary's Statement in the Commons
Speaking in the House of Commons on Monday, July 13, Mahmood acknowledged the concerns of Reform UK, stating: "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 that she would also examine what security guidance can be provided to former MPs and those serving parties outside Parliament.
Details of the Attack and Investigation
Ann Widdecombe, 78, is believed to have been attacked on Wednesday, July 8. Her body was discovered at around 11:40 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, with a head wound. Her property in Haytor was declared a major crime scene overnight. CTP took over the murder investigation after new evidence emerged, describing the case as "dynamic and complex." A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, initially arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday, July 11, has been rearrested on suspicion of commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Political Reactions and Security Concerns
Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp urged the public to refrain from speculating about the death, warning that it could prejudice a trial and hinder police work. He said: "I'd like to thank the police for releasing the information they have so far, including about the identity of the suspect. It is always important to release as much information as possible in the interests of transparency and to avoid misinformation filling the void." Philp also called for redoubled efforts to ensure public figures receive proportionate protection and urged politicians to "set an example of civility and calm."
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle reassured MPs that their security concerns are treated equally and passed on to security personnel. He stated: "Every member of Parliament is equal in their security to me – there is no difference between any member. When things are brought to my attention, it is passed on to the security people to deal with." This came after Zia Yusuf, Reform UK's home affairs spokesman, claimed on X that Sir Lindsay, the Government, and the police did not "care at all about the security of Reform MPs."
Cross-Party Support and Next Steps
Dame Karen Bradley, Conservative MP and chair of the Commons Home Affairs Committee, thanked Staffordshire Police for reaching out to her over the weekend and visiting her home to assess security arrangements. She said: "I know police forces across the country will be doing that and I'm very grateful to them for taking that time." The Home Secretary's review of security advice for former MPs is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
