UK reviews security for public figures after ex-minister Ann Widdecombe murdered

Britain's home secretary has ordered an urgent review of protection for high-profile figures following the killing of former MP Ann Widdecombe. The suspect faces both murder and terrorism charges.

Britain orders security overhaul after former minister's murder

Britain's Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood on Monday announced an urgent review of security arrangements for high-profile public figures, wmbdradio.com reports, following the killing of former minister Ann Widdecombe in what prosecutors allege was an ideologically motivated attack.

Mahmood told parliament the review would examine protection currently provided to a broad range of prominent individuals, including members of the royal family, serving ministers, lawmakers and other senior politicians. "It is clear there is insufficient protection for those who serve," she said.

The Home Secretary also confirmed that dedicated police support would be extended to leaders of political parties who are not sitting MPs, former lawmakers and party spokespeople, granting them access to a named police officer and assistance with broader security measures.

Widdecombe, who served as a junior Conservative minister in the mid-1990s and had more recently become a prominent figure in Nigel Farage's Reform UK party, was killed in July. Joshua Kerry has been charged with her murder and was subsequently accused of a terrorism offence targeting Farage and other unnamed public figures.

Prosecutors allege Kerry attempted to gain entry to Farage's home in April 2025. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating the police response to that incident.

Widdecombe's death has intensified longstanding concerns about the safety of politicians. Two serving British MPs were killed in 2016 and 2021 respectively.

Source: Google News MT — Crime (en)