LBC radio presenter Iain Dale lost his composure live on air, delivering a furious rebuke against what he called “disgusting” comments about former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe days after she was found dead at her home aged 78. Counter-terrorism police are investigating the murder, with a 28-year-old man in custody on suspicion of the offence.
Dale's Emotional On-Air Outburst
During his LBC programme, Dale addressed the backlash against Widdecombe, who was a prominent Conservative politician and television personality. He said: “She’s had at least 10 years of her life ripped away from her, by somebody whose motive we cannot begin to imagine what that motive was.”
Dale, who also writes a weekly Substack newsletter, revealed he had written a personal letter to Widdecombe to express his emotions and those of her friends and family. He added: “I hope that I’ve done something to try and counteract some of the disgusting comments that some people were making in the 24 hours after her death.”
Call for Respect and Decency
Dale continued: “Because some people really ought to look themselves in the eye and learn what the word respect means. You do not insult people within 24 hours of their death. Even if you disagree with them, violently, on all sorts of issues.”
Listeners rallied behind Dale on social media. One fan wrote on X: “Totally agree @IainDale and I wonder how many of those would be brave enough to say ‘disgusting comments’ to people’s faces instead of hiding behind social media profiles. Respect and human decency has gone out of the window for some but thankfully not all.”
Public Reaction to Widdecombe's Murder
Another listener commented: “Absolutely agree. I cannot believe the absolute lack of decency and humanity in significant swathes of the population. What the f*** is wrong with these people!!?” A third added: “You are a legend Iain, 100% agree.”
Widdecombe, who served as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010 and later as an MEP, was found dead at her home. The murder has shocked the political and media world, with tributes pouring in from across the spectrum. The investigation by counter-terrorism police continues, and the suspect remains in custody.
