Starmer Condemns ‘Shocking’ Murder of Pro-Brexit Former Minister

London: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer sparked condemnation on Friday as the death of the 78-year-old former Conservative Party minister sent shockwaves across Britain after police announced a murder investigation and launched a hunt for a white male suspect.

Ann Widdecombe, an outspoken Brexiteer who later joined the Brexit Party to campaign for the UK to leave the European Union (EU), served as a member of Parliament for several years before leaving politics.

He returned in 2023 to join Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, and served for a time as the far-right party’s immigration and justice spokesman.

“This is truly shocking news,” Starmer said from 10 Downing Street in London.

“Ann was an outstanding politician with many achievements over many years and this is a huge loss.

“This is a moment where we overcome all political differences and political divisions and say that the most important thing now is for all of us and the public to help the police identify the suspicious person and ensure his arrest as soon as possible,” he said.

The UK Prime Minister said the suspect was “clearly dangerous” overall and appealed for anyone with any information to assist the police investigation.

British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: “The circumstances surrounding her death are extremely saddening and my thoughts are with Ann’s family and loved ones.”

“Ann’s commitment to public service spanned decades and she was a true servant of her constituents.

“I spoke to the chief constable of Devon and Cornwall today. The Home Office stands ready to provide any support they need in relation to the ongoing investigation. I would urge everyone to avoid speculation and allow the police investigation to progress,” he said.

Earlier, when news of his death first emerged, many politicians paid tribute, including former prime minister Boris Johnson, who described him as a “heroic Brexiteer”.

Hours later, Devon and Cornwall Police said they had opened a murder investigation because the death, which occurred at his home on Dartmoor in Devon, south-west England, on Thursday was being treated as “suspicious”.

Detectives from the force’s Major Crime Investigation Team are said to be carrying out “extensive investigations” into the circumstances surrounding his death as he was “discovered dead” after suffering “serious injuries”.

Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said: “Our murder investigation is still in its early stages but is progressing at a significant pace. We are using all necessary resources to find out exactly what happened and find the person responsible, whom we believe to be a white male.”

“We have increased uniformed police presence in the area to both support the investigation and provide reassurance to residents. Anyone with concerns can speak to our officers at the scene,” Rosson said.

His home was in remote countryside near the small village of Haytor Vale in Devon, where he is believed to have lived alone.