Former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe has died at the age of 78. Her final television appearance was a trip to the Channel Islands, where she attended a Ladies Lunch club in Jersey as a guest speaker just weeks before her death.
Final TV Appearance in Jersey
Speaking to ITV, Widdecombe delivered a withering assessment of those who "moan" about Brexit. She quipped that Reform UK and the namesake Reform parties in the Channel Islands were "slightly different." When asked to offer one piece of advice to candidates for the region's forthcoming elections, she said: "Tell the truth. The public doesn't want you to tell them what you think they want to hear."
Brexit and Sovereignty
Addressing residents' concerns about the impacts of Brexit, Widdecombe emphasised the significance of "sovereignty." She said: "I'd say to them that I believe that Britain should make its own laws, control its own borders, should make its own trade deals which it's been doing since Brexit." She added that "there are huge Brexit benefits" and took aim at those who complain about queuing at airport e-gates: "We're the nation that endured the Blitz, we fought for six years to be free and now you're saying that it's worth giving up our sovereignty so you can get through the e-gates quicker? I mean spare me, spare me!"
Strictly Come Dancing and Later Career
Widdecombe also reflected on her stint on the eighth series of Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, where she was partnered with Anton du Beke. She danced her way through to week nine, delivering memorable performances. She said: "Strictly led to a live tour with Craig Revel Horwood, that led to pantomime, that led to an appearance at the Royal Opera House and it just didn't stop!"
Statement on Her Death
Issuing a statement on her death, her management said: "It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. Her life and career were driven by her strong Christian values and commitment to public service. She loved the cut and thrust of political debate and, 16 years after leaving Parliament, was still actively campaigning for Reform UK. Ann was a valued patron of many causes, particularly her animal charities. As Ann once said on The Graham Norton Show, 'we get one go this side of eternity, one go. Life is not a dress rehearsal, you take opportunities that you like and you go for it, that's my philosophy'. 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."
