Aberdeen University probes staff over Ann Widdecombe wishes

The University of Aberdeen has launched a formal review after a staff member posted online that she hoped former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe suffered an "extremely painful death." The university confirmed on Sunday, July 12, that it is treating the matter as a priority following widespread public criticism of the comments.

Heather Herbert, a web developer at the university, wrote on the social media platform Bluesky that news of Widdecombe's death was "some good news for once." In subsequent posts, she added, "I hope it was an extremely painful death" and "I hope she was handcuffed to the bed as she screamed in agony." The posts were made shortly after initial reports of the 78-year-old's death, before police had confirmed they were treating it as murder.

Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor on Thursday, July 9. A 28-year-old man was arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday, July 11, on suspicion of her murder. Police have stated there is no evidence to suggest the killing was politically motivated.

In a statement, the University of Aberdeen said the views expressed by Herbert are "entirely the...