Former Conservative MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe has died at the age of 78, her management confirmed on Friday. A statement released by her representatives said: "It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. We send our deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends. We ask that the family's wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected."
Political Career and Ministerial Roles
Widdecombe served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone, later Maidstone and the Weald, from 1987 to 2010. During her time in Parliament, she held several ministerial positions under Prime Minister Sir John Major, including roles at the Home Office and the Department of Social Security. She was known for her strong social conservatism, opposing abortion rights and the expansion of LGBT equality.
One of her most memorable moments in politics came during her tenure as a Home Office minister when she famously clashed with then-Home Secretary Michael Howard, declaring that he had "something of the night about him." She also drew criticism for defending a policy that allowed pregnant prisoners to be shackled to their beds.
Strictly Come Dancing and Later Career
After leaving the House of Commons in 2010, Widdecombe participated in the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, partnered with professional dancer Anton du Beke. The pair advanced to the semi-finals, largely due to public support. She later returned to politics as a staunch Eurosceptic, backing the Vote Leave campaign during the 2016 Brexit referendum. In 2019, she joined the Brexit Party and served as an MEP for South West England until 2020. She subsequently joined Reform UK in 2023, the successor to the Brexit Party, and acted as the party's immigration spokesperson.
Personal Life and Legacy
Widdecombe never married and stated that she had no interest in romantic relationships. Her death has prompted tributes from across the political spectrum, with colleagues remembering her as a dedicated public servant and a formidable campaigner for her beliefs.
