Home Office minister Shabana Mahmood has told the House of Commons that the suspect in the murder of Anne Widdecombe was not known to the Prevent counter-terrorism programme. The 28-year-old white British man remains in custody as counter-terrorism police lead the investigation.
Mahmood Confirms Prevent Status
In a statement to MPs, Mahmood described the circumstances of Widdecombe's death as “extremely distressing”. She confirmed that Lawrence Taylor, head of national counter-terrorism policing, had taken over the investigation after new evidence emerged. Taylor stated: “We now have new information and evidence that means counter-terrorism policing is leading the investigation. We are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.”
Mahmood added: “The police now have a suspect in custody, a 28-year-old white British man. And I can confirm to the House that this man was not known to Prevent.” She urged against speculation, saying it was the right thing to do for Widdecombe’s family and friends, and stressed the need for police to have space to carry out their work.
Investigation Details
Anne Widdecombe, a 64-year-old woman, was found dead at her home in Kent on Monday. The suspect was arrested shortly after. Counter-terrorism police have not disclosed the nature of the new evidence that led to their involvement, but they are exploring multiple lines of inquiry. The Metropolitan Police Counter Terrorism Command is working with Kent Police.
The case has raised questions about the effectiveness of Prevent, the government's voluntary de-radicalisation programme. However, Mahmood's confirmation that the suspect was not known to Prevent indicates that the programme did not have prior contact with him.
Political Response
Shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper expressed condolences and called for a thorough investigation. She urged the government to provide updates as the inquiry progresses. The Home Office has promised to keep MPs informed.
The suspect is being held under terrorism legislation, but no charges have been filed yet. Police have until Friday to question him further or seek an extension.
