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The home secretary has announced that police protection will be extended to political figures who are not currently serving as Members of Parliament. Shabana Mahmood informed MPs that the existing security measures were inadequate for individuals involved in public life. This new provision will now include peers, former MPs, and party spokespeople.
In addition to this expanded protection, Mahmood revealed plans for an urgent, independent review to assess the security arrangements for prominent individuals such as politicians and members of the royal family. The review aims to enhance safety measures for these high-profile figures.
This announcement follows a tragic incident three months ago when Reform UK spokeswoman and former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Devon with serious injuries. A 28-year-old man, Joshua Kerry, has been charged with her murder, as well as preparing acts of terror directed at Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.
Mahmood emphasized the importance of safeguarding those involved in politics, stating, “For those who serve, politics is a calling, robust debate and criticism are part of this job, threats abuse and violence are not.” The issue of political security has been increasingly significant following the killings of Conservative MP Sir David Amess in 2021 and Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016. She highlighted the responsibility to ensure protection for all who serve, saying, “We owe it to them and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country to ensure that those who serve at all levels receive the protection they deserve.” The upcoming independent review will be led by former national security advisor Stephen Lovegrove
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