Reform UK has demanded a dramatic increase in funding for MP security following the killing of former Conservative MP and party spokesperson Ann Widdecombe, calling for the budget to be raised from approximately £4 million to as much as £100 million. The party argues that elected representatives deserve full protection if they want it, especially after counter-terrorism police confirmed Widdecombe died in a “targeted attack.”
Reform UK Calls for Urgent Security Overhaul
Reform’s home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf said: “Ann Widdecombe gave 40 years of her life to public service. Most recently, as an MEP for the Brexit Party, and then as a spokesperson for Reform UK. She was a titan of British politics. Forthright, principled, and guided by her faith. She did not deserve to be killed in her home.” He added that the state cutting MP security is “shameful” and that the budget must be increased immediately.
Yusuf also defended party leader Nigel Farage against criticism for “speculating” about the attack, stating that with the investigation being treated as a targeted killing, such criticism is “unacceptable and unjustified.” He emphasised that elected representatives should feel safe while doing their jobs.
Nigel Farage to Meet Home Office Security Committee
Reform leader Nigel Farage has said he plans to meet the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (RAVEC), the body responsible for security of high-profile figures, on Thursday following an offer from Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood. Farage told TalkTV: “I will be in London tomorrow to meet the Home Office committee that deals with VIP and royal protection and really helping them to understand what the threats are.”
Farage was reportedly offered a security package similar to that provided to Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch last year, including a bodyguard, car, and trained driver, but he turned it down because he deemed it a downgrade. He explained that his public engagements involve large crowds and require advance scouting, which a single officer and driver could not provide. He said his security was cut by 75% last year, making it impossible to continue operating as he does.
Incoming PM Calls for Serious Review
Incoming prime minister Andy Burnham has said a “serious review” is needed into MPs’ security. The killing has sparked a wider conversation about the safety of parliamentarians, with Reform UK pressing for immediate action. The party’s demand for a £100 million budget would represent a 25-fold increase from current spending, aimed at providing comprehensive protection for any MP who requests it.
