Sky News journalist Adam Boulton has been widely criticised for his 'disgraceful' remarks about Ann Widdecombe, made shortly after a murder investigation was launched into her death. The former Conservative MP died aged 78, and Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that her death is being treated as suspicious after her body was discovered with serious injuries at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday. A 26-year-old male suspect is in custody after being arrested near the scene.
Boulton's controversial comments
Appearing on Sky News, Boulton, 67, described Widdecombe as 'very much a spinster' and 'an old maid', and speculated about her private life, including her virginity. He said: 'She was very much a spinster. By the end, I think you'd probably describe her as an old maid.' He went on to discuss her chaste relationship at university and her dedication to her career. Thousands took to social media to condemn his remarks, with @NicholasLissack calling them 'misogynistic poison' and @avivaelias asking: 'Why is he so fixated on her single status? Would you EVER say that about a man in the same position?'
Murder investigation details
Devon and Cornwall Police launched a murder investigation after Widdecombe's body was found with a serious head wound. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman confirmed that a 26-year-old white British male is in custody, arrested in Newton Abbot. Police have ruled out terrorism and said it is too early to comment on a motive. Outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer urged vigilance and said it is vital to 'rise above any political differences'. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch expressed shock, saying: 'I don't understand how someone could do something so horrific to an elderly person.'
Tributes and political reaction
Nigel Farage, who worked with Widdecombe in the Brexit Party and Reform UK, said he was 'deeply, deeply upset' and called her death 'a terrible reflection on modern Britain'. Widdecombe's neighbour Susan Coysh described her as 'a character and a lovely lady' who kept to herself. Cloud9 Management said they are 'absolutely devastated' and urged the public to respect the family's privacy. Widdecombe served as an MP from 1987 to 2010 and later as a Brexit Party MEP and Reform UK spokeswoman.
