Police issue major Ann Widdecombe murder probe update on ‘left-wing motive’ | UK | News

Counter-terrorism police are investigating whether the suspect arrested in connection with the murder of Ann Widdecombe was motivated by left-wing extremism and was planning further violence against other high-profile figures.

Detectives confirmed Ms Widdecombe’s death was a “targeted attack” and said it would be a “line of inquiry” whether the suspect in the alleged murder was targeting Reform UK figures.

The police investigation was also reported to be investigating whether left-wing extremism or other political motives were behind the murder.

The 78-year-old former MP and MP was found dead at his home in Haytor on Dartmoor, Devon, on Thursday.

A 28-year-old white British man arrested in South Yorkshire on Saturday remains in custody.

He is being held on suspicion of murder, as well as the commission, preparation or instigation of terrorist acts.

After new evidence emerged, counter-terrorism police now took responsibility for the case; However, a senior official emphasized that murder and terrorism investigations are currently working “in parallel”.

Deputy Commissioner Laurence Taylor told reporters on Tuesday that the question of whether his appearance on television led to his killing was also a “line of inquiry”.

Ms Widdecombe spoke to Mark Dolan via video link on Talk TV just after 8am on Wednesday and police believe she was attacked at around 12.30am the same day.

“It’s clear this was a targeted attack,” Mr Taylor said.

“We are still working to understand the extent of any planning or preparation and the motivation behind this attack.”

Asked whether police were investigating whether the suspect had targeted other Reform UK figures, he said: “Obviously, part of our responsibility when investigating crimes of this nature is to secure ourselves, and therefore the public and others, against any existing threats.

“This will establish a line of inquiry to ensure that we take all appropriate measures to mitigate any threats should they arise.

“At this stage, I’m not saying there is or there isn’t.”

New prime minister Andy Burnham said a “serious review” was needed into MPs’ safety after the update.

He said: “What happened to Ann is obviously appalling. I had known Ann for many years in the Parliament and, you know, we got on well and everyone else did too.

“But it feels like something has changed. It’s easy to blame social media, but it feels like it’s had a hand in creating this kind of toxicity around political discussions.”

Mr Burnham said the problem could not be solved with “easy, fluid answers” ​​and added: “I think we now need a serious review of the safety of MPs.

“I’m definitely ready to do this.”

Ms Widdecombe’s death follows the killings of Conservative MP Sir David Amess in 2021 and Labor’s Jo Cox in 2016.