Reform UK has been offered a security meeting with parliamentary authorities after the death of Ann Widdecombe sparked fresh alarm about violence against politicians. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed that Nigel Farage, a close friend of the late MP, has been offered a meeting with the chair of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), the independent body within the Home Office that manages security for public figures.
Background to the security row
The offer comes just days after Reform UK was forced to provide its own MPs with private protection, claiming that "the state" would not do it. Party figures say that threats of violence against its representatives have only grown. Zia Yusuf, a senior Reform official, warned that the government and police did not "care at all about the security of Reform MPs."
Labour Minister Lucy Rigby also sounded alarm bells about the threats politicians face, calling it a "sad and troubling" reality that elected officials face increased threats. She urged the UK to "sort out" rising security issues, adding that there was a "really concerning climate of abuse and intimidation and violence" against MPs.
Parliamentary authorities respond
Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle dismissed concerns that Reform UK's fears were not being taken seriously. He said MPs' worries are treated equally regardless of which MP made them, adding that "we don't dismiss security" and that when concerns are raised, he passes them on to "the security people." Sir Lindsay expressed regret that "people don't think I do that," in a pointed rebuke to Mr Yusuf.
Ann Widdecombe's death
The debate around MP safety reignited after Ann Widdecombe, a prominent Reform UK MP, was found dead in her home last week. Police are treating the incident as terror-related. Nigel Farage, a close friend of Miss Widdecombe, has been offered a meeting with the head of the parliament security team.
Home Secretary's statement
Shabana Mahmood confirmed the meeting offer to MPs, stating: "I'm happy to offer a meeting for Mr Farage with the chair of Ravec, the independent body within the Home Office that manages the security of those in public life." She added that she would also look at providing security guidance to former MPs and those who serve a party outside of Parliament.
