Offers security meeting to Farage after Widdecombe murder

The British government has offered a meeting with its top security body to Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and pledged to review protections for former members of Parliament following the murder of former Conservative minister and Reform justice spokesman Ann Widdecombe. The announcements were made in the House of Commons on Monday, July 13, 2026, as counter-terrorism police lead what they describe as a dynamic and complex investigation into Widdecombe's death.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told MPs she recognized the particular concern felt by the Reform party and its leader. She confirmed she had offered a meeting for Farage with the chair of Ravec, the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, which is the independent Home Office body responsible for security for public figures. Mahmood also said she would be reviewing security guidance for former MPs and those serving parties outside Parliament.

The 78-year-old Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Haytor on Dartmoor at approximately 11:40 a.m. on Thursday, July 9, after sustaining serious injuries. Police believe she was attacked the previous day, July 8. A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, was...