Ann Widdecombe: Nigel Farage to be offered security meeting after Reform politician's death
MPs have paid tribute to former minister and MEP Anne Widdecombe following her killing last week.
Nigel Farage has been offered a parliamentary security meeting amid the party’s concerns about the safety of Reform UK MPs following Ann Widdecombe’s death, Shabana Mahmood has said.
The Home Secretary also told the House of Commons that she would be assessing security advice for former MPs in the wake of her killing.
Ms Widdecombe was an MP for 23 years as well as being the Prisons and Employment Minister.
She also served as Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from 2019 to 2020 for the Brexit Party, and later became Reform’s immigration spokesperson.
Paying tribute in the Commons this afternoon, the Home Secretary said that Ms Widdecombe was “one of those rare politicians who was bigger than politics”, and that the circumstances of the former Maidstone MP’s death were “extremely distressing”.
She told MPs: “Today is a dark day in our political life, but we must also use it as an opportunity to celebrate Ann Widdicombe’s memory.
“She was a unique figure in our politics, a distinctive and devoted public servant, the likes of whom we will rarely, if ever, see again.
“Ann had a profound faith. Her journey in this life has ended too soon. May she now rest in eternal peace.”
The 78-year-old was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at about 11.40am on Thursday after sustaining serious injuries.
A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, who was arrested on suspicion of her murder on Saturday, has since been rearrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism.
Ms Mahmood told the House of Commons that the suspect was not known to the Government anti-extremism scheme Prevent.
She said Mr Farage had been offered a meeting with the head of a parliamentary body responsible for politicians’ security amid the party’s concerns about the safety of Reform UK MPs.
She said: “I recognise the particular concern that the Reform Party will feel today, and of course Nigel Farage, the party’s leader.
“I’m happy to offer a meeting for Mr Farage with the chair of Ravec (Royal and VIP Executive Committee), the independent body within the Home Office that manages the security of those in public life.
“I will also be looking at what security guidance can be provided to former members of Parliament, which I hope to work with you on Mr Speaker, as well as those who serve a party outside of this place.”
She referenced the growing dangers for politicians, saying: “I know this raises questions about the security of those in public life.
“I will not be the only one here thinking also of two other beloved members of this House - Jo Cox and Sir David Amess.
“Politics is a calling for those of us here, but it should not be a dangerous one.
“It is incumbent on the House and the Government to protect those who choose to serve.”
Paying tribute to Ms Widdecombe in the Commons, Reform deputy leader Richard Tice said: “We will miss her dearly and I also think that the Scottish Whisky Association has lost a discerning customer.
“Maybe there could be a limited edition Widders’ Whisky where the tasting notes may reflect unique unforgettable flavours, a fiery-spicy series of tones, but a blend to be treasured to eternity.”