Counter-terrorism police are investigating whether the suspect detained over Ann Widdecombe's killing was driven by left-wing extremism and plotting additional violence against other prominent figures, including those from Reform UK.
Targeted Attack Confirmed
Detectives have confirmed Miss Widdecombe's death was a "targeted attack," and revealed that whether the suspect in the alleged murder was targeting Reform UK personalities will form a "line of investigation." The police inquiry is also examining whether left-wing extremism or other political motivations were behind the killing, according to reports.
The 78-year-old former MP and MEP was discovered dead at her residence in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on Thursday. A 28-year-old white British man arrested in South Yorkshire on Saturday remains in custody. He is being detained on suspicion of commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism, as well as on suspicion of murder.
Counter-Terrorism Takes Over
Counter-terrorism police have now taken control of the case following new evidence emerging, but a senior officer emphasised the murder and terror investigations are currently running "in parallel." Assistant Commissioner Laurence Taylor told journalists on Tuesday that the question of whether a TV appearance might have triggered her killing is also a "line of inquiry."
Miss Widdecombe spoke to Mark Dolan via video-link on Talk TV just after 8am on Wednesday, and police believe she was attacked at approximately 12.30pm the same day. "It is clear that this was a targeted attack," Mr Taylor said. "We are still working to understand the extent of any planning or preparation, and the motivation that sits behind that attack."
Reform UK Connection Investigated
When questioned if police were investigating whether the suspect was targeting other Reform UK figures, he stated: "So clearly, part of our responsibility when investigating offences of this nature is to assure ourselves and therefore the public and others of any extant of threat. That will form a line of investigation to ensure that we are putting all appropriate measures in place to mitigate any threat, should it become apparent. I'm not saying there is or there isn't at this stage."
Following the update, incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for a "serious review" into MPs' security. He commented: "It's obviously appalling what happened to Ann. I knew Ann over many years in the House, and you know, we would get along - and everybody would get along. But it feels as though something has changed. It's easy to blame social media, but it feels like it's having some impact in just building that kind of toxicity that's around the political debate."
Call for Security Review
Mr Burnham suggested the issue couldn't be resolved by "easy, glib answers," adding: "I do think we need now a serious review of MPs' security. I certainly am prepared to do that." The death of Miss Widdecombe follows the murders of Conservative MP Sir David Amess in 2021 and Labour's Jo Cox in 2016.
