Heather Herbert, a web developer at the University of Aberdeen, has refused to delete a social media post she made following the death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe. Widdecombe, 78, was found dead in her home on July 8, with police later treating her death as murder. A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was arrested on suspicion of murder and later re-arrested on suspicion of terrorism offences.
Herbert's Explanation for the Post
In her post, Herbert wrote: "Some good news for once. I hope it was an extremely painful death. I hope she was handcuffed to the bed as she screamed in agony." The university has distanced itself from her comments, but Herbert has stood by them. She told Metro: "I’m not a hypocrite, the manner of her death does change how I feel about her. Obviously I don’t want to see anyone murdered but I’m not sad she’s dead." She added that the handcuffs comment referenced Widdecombe's role as prisons minister and her support for shackling pregnant prisoners during labour.
Widdecombe's Stance on Shackling
In 1996, Widdecombe told the Commons that shackles were necessary to prevent pregnant prisoners from escaping, stating: "Some MPs may like to think that a pregnant woman would not or could not escape. Unfortunately this is not true. The fact is that hospitals are not secure places in which to keep prisoners, and since 1990, 20 women have escaped from hospitals."
University Investigation
Professor Peter Edwards, Principal and Vice Chancellor of the University of Aberdeen, issued a statement confirming an investigation into Herbert's comments. He said: "Ann Widdecombe was a highly respected figure in both the Westminster and European parliaments. The University of Aberdeen does not tolerate violence or hateful behaviour in any form. We are aware of the incident and the concerns that have been raised and are looking into the matter as a priority."
