Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has confirmed that the suspect who has been arrested on suspicion of the murder of politician Ann Widdecombe, 78, was not known to the government anti-extremism scheme Prevent.
A 28-year-old white British man from Rotherham, Yorkshire, was arrested on Saturday (July 11) evening and is understood to remain in police custody.
Counter-terrorism officers have rearrested the 28-year-old white British man on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism and are now leading the investigation into Ms Widdecombe's death.
Here’s what we know so far about the murder of the former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokeswoman.
What we know so far about the murder of Ann Widdecombe
How did Ann Widdecombe die?
Ms Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries at a property in Haytor.
Police were called to the scene at 11.40am on Thursday (July 9) and launched a murder investigation.
Who has been arrested?
A 26-year-old British man was arrested on suspicion of murder on Friday (July 10) at an address in Newton Abbot.
He was later released and is no longer being investigated.
A 28-year-old white British man was arrested on suspicion of Ms Widdecombe's murder on Saturday (July 11) and has since been rearrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation, or instigation of acts of terrorism.
What details have been shared about the suspect?
Speaking in the House of Commons on Monday (July 13), Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the suspect was not known to the government's anti-extremism scheme Prevent.
Making a statement in the House of Commons, the Home Secretary told MPs: “The police now have a suspect in custody, a 28-year-old white British man.
“And I can confirm to the House that this man was not known to Prevent.
“The police have cautioned against speculating about the case – that is the right thing to do for Ann’s family and friends.”
What are the police doing?
Counter-terrorism officers are now investigating the death of Ann Widdecombe.
Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP), Laurence Taylor, said: “Building on the progress made by our colleagues in Devon and Cornwall Police, we now have new information and evidence that means Counter Terrorism Policing is now leading the investigation.
“We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.
“Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us.
“If anyone has any information, please share it with the police.
“We would like to thank local communities, the wider public and the media for their ongoing support and patience, and would ask them to continue to support us in the next stage of the investigation.”
CTP appealed to anyone who may have any information that could help the investigation.
What is being done about the security of other politicians and those working in public life?
Nigel Farage has 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, Shabana Mahmood has said.
The Home Secretary said she would also be assessing security advice for former MPs in the wake of Ann Widdecombe’s death.
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.”
Recommended reading:
- Counter terrorism police now leading investigation into death of Ann Widdecombe
- Ann Widdecombe defends Nigel Farage in final TV interview just hours before her death
- Police not looking for any other suspects in Ann Widdecombe murder investigation
What should I do if I know some key information about the case?
Information, images or footage can be reported via the Major Incident Public Portal.
You can also report it to Devon and Cornwall Police on 101.
To remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or online.
The investigation is ongoing.
