Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has promised to review security guidance for MPs following the alleged murder of veteran politician Ann Widdecombe. In a Commons statement, Mahmood described the killing as 'a dark day in our political life' and stressed that being an MP 'should not be a dangerous' job.
Investigation Handed to Counter-Terrorism Police
Counter-terrorism police have taken over the investigation into the death of the 78-year-old former Conservative MP, who later served as a Reform UK politician. A 28-year-old white British man initially arrested on suspicion of murder on Saturday has been re-arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism. Mahmood confirmed the suspect was not known to the government's anti-terror Prevent programme.
Tributes to Slain Politicians
Mahmood paid tribute to Widdecombe as 'a distinctive and devoted public servant' and also remembered Jo Cox and Sir David Amess, who were murdered while serving as MPs. She offered Nigel Farage a meeting with the chair of Ravec (Royal and VIP Executive Committee), an independent body within the Home Office that manages security for public figures. This came after some Reform figures questioned the security of their politicians.
Security Measures Under Review
Mahmood told MPs that security measures are 'kept under constant review' and that police 'intend to issue guidance to MPs soon.' 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.' She thanked Speaker Lindsay Hoyle for his efforts to boost MPs' security.
Earlier, Zia Yusuf, Reform UK's home affairs spokesman (who is not an MP), wrote on X that 'none of the government, the Speaker nor the police care at all about the security of Reform MPs.' Sir Lindsay later told the chamber every MP is 'equal' when it comes to security.
Warning Against Speculation
Mahmood warned against speculating about details of the case, saying: 'The police have cautioned against speculating about the case. That is the right thing to do for Ann's family and friends. It is also vital that the police are given the space they need to carry out their work.'
In her closing tribute, Mahmood said: 'Today is a dark day in our political life, but we must also use it as an opportunity to celebrate Ann Widdecombe's memory. She was a unique figure in our politics, a distinctive and devoted public servant.'
Counter-Terrorism Policing Statement
Earlier, Laurence Taylor, head of UK counter-terrorism policing, said new information and evidence had emerged during the investigation. He stated: 'Building on the progress made by our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police, we now have new information and evidence that means Counter Terrorism Policing is now leading the investigation. We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.'
Taylor added: 'Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us. If anyone has any information, please share it with the police. We would like to thank local communities, the wider public and the media for their ongoing support and patience, and would ask them to continue to support us in the next stage of the investigation.'
