Carole Malone has fiercely criticised Adam Boulton for his remarks about Ann Widdecombe following the announcement of her murder. Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday, July 9, after sustaining serious injuries. Boulton sparked widespread outrage when he appeared on live television and described Widdecombe as a 'spinster,' an 'old maid,' a 'battleaxe,' and a 'bruiser.'
Boulton's Controversial Comments
On Sky News, Boulton said: 'She was very much a spinster, by the end I think you’d probably describe her as an old maid. Reportedly, she claimed that she was a virgin.' The former Sky News presenter, 67, was forced to issue an apology, admitting in a post on X that he had been 'insensitive' and 'clumsy' in his remarks, which were branded 'disgusting' and 'disgraceful' by many online.
Malone Dismisses Apology as Insincere
Even Boulton's apology has attracted criticism, with Express columnist Malone arguing it was insincere and merely an attempt to 'save' his work contracts. Taking to X, she wrote: 'You’re a very clever man. How could you not have known what you were saying as it was coming out of your mouth. Or are you really so lacking in compassion and sensitivity? Your apology is not so much about Ann but more about you saving your various work contracts.'
Details of Widdecombe's Death
Devon and Cornwall Police said it is believed Widdecombe was attacked on Wednesday at around 12.30pm, less than 24 hours before her body was discovered the following day. The former Conservative minister turned Reform UK spokesperson failed to appear on Matt Allwright's show at 1pm on Wednesday, sparking concerns for her welfare. ITV News reported that Widdecombe had spoken to a researcher on the Channel 5 show on the same day to set up an interview, exchanging messages just after 12pm. Her last message was received at 12.19pm on Wednesday. The researcher messaged again at 12:48pm requesting that she join the Zoom link in preparation for the interview, but Widdecombe did not reply. Subsequent voice calls and messages went unanswered. A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of her murder.
