Former Sky News presenter Adam Boulton has been criticised by broadcaster Carole Malone for describing the late Ann Widdecombe as a 'spinster' and 'old maid' during a live television broadcast. Boulton later issued an apology, but Malone dismissed it as self-serving.
Boulton's Controversial Comments
Speaking on Sky News after the death of the former Conservative politician and Reform UK spokesperson, who was found dead at her Devon home on July 10 aged 78, 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.'
Apology Issued
Following the backlash, Boulton apologised, stating: 'I was seriously wrong and insensitive in one of the several media appearances I made yesterday in reaction to the death of Ann Widdecombe. I got the timing and tone of my initial word portrait of her wrong.' He added that he shared 'the horror at her murder and the respect for her remarkable and feisty political career' and that his words were 'clumsy' and not intended to offend.
Carole Malone's Response
Carole Malone criticised the apology on X, writing: '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.' She also condemned those celebrating Widdecombe's death, saying: 'All those cretinous savages gleefully celebrating the brutal murder of Ann Widdecombe - a 78 year old lady who spent her last moments on this earth in abject terror - there's a special place in Hell for you all.'
Investigation Update
Police have arrested a 28-year-old white British man in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, in connection with Widdecombe's death. Counter Terrorism Policing South East stated that 'new information and evidence has come to light' as they lead the investigation. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: 'The police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack. I will be updating the House further this afternoon.'
