MPs issued chilling ‘build a safe room at home’ warning before Ann Wid | UK | News
MI5 told vulnerable MPs to set up safe rooms in their homes just three months before Ann Widdecombe was murdered, it has been revealed. Security services had called on “high-risk” politicians, including MPs, parliamentarians and foreign dissidents, to create shelters in their homes in case of attacks by “hostile actors”.
The National Protective Safety Authority (NPSA) has published guidance encouraging people to equip their homes with fog machines and bulletproof walls. Other suggestions included keeping indoor lights on to make empty homes appear occupied and cutting back foliage around properties to limit potential hiding places.
Ann Widdecombe was attacked and murdered at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Wednesday, July 8, and Joshua Kerry, 28, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was later arrested on suspicion of murder.
He was arrested again two days later, on July 13, on suspicion of committing, preparing or instigating terrorist acts.
Ms Widdecombe’s address was publicly available years before her death, but she refused further security measures, the Times reported.
Widdecombe, who was 78 when he died, was outspoken on issues such as immigration, gay rights and abortion. After several decades in the Conservative Party, he joined the Brexit Party before joining Reform UK in 2023.
Speaking in the House of Commons, home secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “I can confirm this man is not known as Preventive.
“Police have warned against speculating about the case, which is the right thing to do for Ann’s family and friends.”
Responding to questions from the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer said: “The murder of three sitting or former MPs during my 11 years in this parliament is chilling.
“I look at the shield of our dear friend Jo Cox and the shield of Sir David Amess sitting behind me.
“I know this is a matter for the House, so this is my personal opinion, but I believe it would be appropriate for the House to pay a similar tribute to Ann.”
