Good Morning Britain halted its regular programming on Monday to deliver the heartbreaking news that former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe has died at the age of 78. Presenters Kate Garraway and Ranvir Singh interrupted the ITV breakfast show schedule to share the breaking announcement after Widdecombe's spokesperson confirmed her death.
A statement released on behalf of her family said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Ann Widdecombe at the age of 78." Widdecombe was one of the most recognisable figures in British politics, serving as the Conservative MP for Maidstone between 1987 and 2010.
Political Career and Ministerial Roles
During John Major's government, she held ministerial roles including Employment Minister and later Prisons Minister before becoming Shadow Home Secretary under William Hague. Known for her outspoken views, Widdecombe became one of the Conservative Party's best-known social conservatives, campaigning on issues including abortion and opposing the ordination of women priests.
Television Career and Later Life
Following her departure from Parliament, she enjoyed a successful television career, appearing on programmes including Strictly Come Dancing, Celebrity Big Brother and numerous political debate shows. In later years, Widdecombe left the Conservative Party and joined Reform UK, standing as one of the party's most high-profile figures.
Tributes from Political Figures
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum following news of her death. Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice spoke to GB News and paid an emotional tribute to his former colleague. Tice, also MP for Boston and Skegness, appeared close to tears when he hailed her "remarkable contribution to public life, both in politics and entertaining people" throughout her career inside and outside Westminster and Strasbourg.
"Whether it was in a small meeting or a huge audience of thousands of people, she had everybody listening intently to what she said. That's a remarkable gift," he said. "I'm not sure they make them like that anymore... They really don't."
