Tributes have been paid to Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and MEP who also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing, after her death at the age of 78. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said she played a 'decisive role' in getting the UK out of the European Union and 'will be missed by us all.'
Political Career and Controversies
Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010, representing the Kent constituency of Maidstone, later Maidstone and the Weald. She held several ministerial positions under Prime Minister Sir John Major, including Home Office minister. She famously clashed with her Conservative colleague Michael Howard, describing him as having 'something of the night about him.' She also faced criticism for defending a policy of chaining pregnant prisoners to their beds.
Post-Commons Life and Brexit Role
After leaving the Commons, Widdecombe joined the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, partnered with Anton du Beke, and reached the semi-finals thanks to public votes. In 2019, she joined Nigel Farage's Brexit Party and served as an MEP for South West England until 2020. Farage stated: 'When Ann Widdecombe decided to stand for The Brexit Party in the snap 2019 European Elections, it was a big moment and huge boost. The voters loved her. She played a decisive role in getting Brexit over the line and will be missed by us all.'
Management and Colleagues Pay Tribute
A statement from her management said: 'It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. 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.' Cloud9 Management, who represented her for over a decade, added: '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.'
Social Conservatism and Personal Life
Widdecombe was known for her socially conservative views, opposing abortion and LGBT rights expansion. She claimed to have no interest in sex and never married. Defence minister Luke Pollard, who stood against her in 2019, said: 'As a gay remainer, let's just say we didn't see eye to eye on some important issues. Despite the disagreements she was always polite and courteous. She was one of politics' characters.' Health Secretary James Murray remarked: 'She was never shy of having quite firm views... everyone can recognise the contribution that she made to politics.'
