Nigel Farage major security update after Ann Widdecombe’s ‘murder’ | UK | News

Following the death of Ann Widdecombe, Nigel Farage has been offered a meeting with the head of the parliamentary body responsible for the safety of politicians.

Speaking in the House of Commons this afternoon (13 July), Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed that Reform UK would also review security advice for former MPs due to growing concerns about the safety of the party’s elected representatives.

Ms Mahmood said: “I am aware of the particular concern that the Reform Party, and of course its leader Nigel Farage, will feel today.

“I am delighted to offer Mr Farage a meeting with the chairman of Ravec (Royal and VIP Executive Committee), the independent body within the Home Office that manages the security of people in public life.

“I will also be looking at what security guidance can be provided to former members of Parliament and those who serve a party outside of here, with whom I hope to work with you on the issue of Mr Speaker.”

This comes after Ann Widdecombe’s body was found last Thursday morning (9 July).

The former MP is believed to have been attacked on Wednesday 8 July.

Ms Widdecombe is thought to have suffered head injuries and was found dead at her Dartmoor home at around 11.40am on Thursday. His Haytor property was quickly declared a major crime scene overnight.

Counter Terrorism Police (CTP) are leading a murder investigation into Ms Widdecombe’s death after new evidence emerged in the case described as “dynamic and complex”. A man who was first arrested on Saturday, July 11, on suspicion of murder was later re-arrested on suspicion of committing, preparing or instigating acts of terrorism.

CTP confirmed the suspect was a 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire.

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp also spoke in the House of Commons today, urging the public to avoid speculating about Ms Widdecombe’s death, warning it would make the police’s job very difficult and could damage the trial.

He said: “I would like to thank the police for releasing the information they have so far, including the identity of the suspect. It is always important to release as much information as possible for transparency and to prevent misinformation filling the gap.”

On threats to people in public life, Mr Philp said: “We must redouble our efforts to ensure that public political figures who are MPs and non-MPs like Ann always receive the proportionate protection they need.”

He also added that politicians should “set an example of kindness and calm rather than inciting anger.”

Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle assured MPs that security concerns were being addressed equally and “passed on to security officers for their attention”.

He told MPs: “For me, every member of Parliament is equal in terms of security; there is no difference between any member, I want to reassure you.

“I assure everyone that when the events are brought to my attention (because we do not discuss security, I do not reveal what happened, what was done) but when this issue is brought to my attention, the matter will be forwarded to the security officials.

“Unfortunately, I’m sorry that people don’t think I did that.”

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Staffordshire Moorlands Conservative MP Dame Karen Bradley, who chairs the House of Commons Home Affairs Committee, said she wanted to “thank Staffordshire Police” for reaching out to her at the weekend and visiting her home to assess security arrangements.

“I know police forces up and down the country will do this and I am so grateful to them for their time,” added Dame Karen.