Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told MPs that an attack on any politician is an attack on all as she voiced her solidarity with Nigel Farage after Ann Widdecombe’s suspected killer was charged with a terrorism offence
Ann Widdecombe was killed in her own home in July(Image: Yui Mok/PA Wire)
Shabana Mahmood has announced that security for MPs and senior politicians, as well as Royals, will be reviewed following Ann Widdecombe’s death.
The Home Secretary told MPs that dedicated police support will be expanded to cover former MPs, party spokespeople, and others not already covered. Ms Mahmood voiced her “sympathy and solidarity” with Nigel Farage after it was alleged that the man suspected of murdering Ms Widdecombe had travelled to his home more than a year earlier.
She said: “Those who enter public life do so to serve. Robust debate and criticism are part of the job. Threats, abuse and violence are not. An attack on any individual in public life is an attack on every one of us, and it is an attack on democracy itself.
“We owe it to those public servants we have tragically lost, and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country, to ensure those who serve receive the protection they deserve.”
Former Tory MP Ms Widdecombe, who since defected to Reform UK, was killed in her Devon home in July. Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with her murder.
He also faces a charge of preparing terrorist acts, including an allegation he attempted to break into Nigel Farage’s home.
Ms Mahmood announced a review will be carried out by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, who will examine whether there is adequate protection for those most at risk. This includes “high-profile individuals” including Royals, government ministers, MPs, councillors and other political figures.
The Home Office also announced that dedicated police support will be expanded to leaders of political parties who are not MPs. Also eligible are peers, former MPs, former members of the devolved parliaments and political party spokespeople.
Sir Stephen’s review will fit alongside a review by former Tory minister Sir Robert Buckland, who is examining the murder of Sir David Amess MP – which will consider the security of MPs in their constituencies.
In an update to MPs, the Home Secretary said: “I start with the threat posed by terrorists and extremists. I know one case in particular will be on the minds of many in this House today.
“It is now three months since the murder of Ann Widdecombe at her home in Devon. We continue to mourn her loss. On October 2, the suspect was charged with a terrorism offence, including preparing an act of terror against the leader of Reform UK, the honourable member for Clacton (Mr Farage).
“I know that news that that happened will have been deeply distressing for the honourable member, so may I say to him and to his family, they have my profoundest sympathies at what must be an awful time. As I have said before, an attack on any one of us is an attack on us all.
“I know other members, as well as people outside of this House, have recently been contacted by the police in connection with this case. To all of those affected, may I offer the same sympathies and solidarity as I do to the honourable member for Clacton.
“Mr Speaker, at times like these, we must stand together as one House. For those who serve, politics is a calling. Robust debate and criticism are part of this job.
“Threats, abuse, and violence are not.” Ms Mahmood paid tribute to Ms Widdecombe and murdered Tory MP Sir David Amess and Labour’s Jo Cox.
