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A new national democracy protection unit is being introduced to provide police forces with specialized support in addressing the increasing threats and abuse directed at Members of Parliament (MPs). This initiative is led by police chief Chris Balmer, who has been appointed to oversee efforts to investigate and combat crimes that undermine democratic processes. The surge in incidents, which include harassment, criminal damage, and death threats, has raised significant concerns for the safety of elected officials.
Since 2019, crimes reported against MPs have more than doubled, reaching nearly 1,000 cases last year. Many MPs have shared with the BBC that death threats are now a frequent occurrence, although numerous incidents go unreported. Security Minister Dan Jarvis highlighted the unprecedented scale and pace of these threats, emphasizing the importance of responding effectively. Balmer’s role involves coordinating intelligence on risks faced by politicians, advising law enforcement on identifying anti-democratic offenses, and providing expert assistance to officers handling these cases.
Data released to the BBC reveals that between 2019 and 2025, MPs reported 4,064 crimes to the Metropolitan Police’s Parliamentary Liaison Team. The number of offenses has consistently increased year after year, with nearly 1,000 recorded in 2025 compared to just over 300 in 2019. The majority of reported incidents relate to malicious communications, followed by harassment and damage to property. While physical assaults remain comparatively rare, they saw a peak during the 2024 general election year. The data, however, does not specify how many allegations have led to legal convictions.
Following the tragic murders of Jo Cox in 2016 and Sir David Amess in 2021, security for MPs has been significantly enhanced. Measures like Operation Bridger, launched in 2016, offer MPs increased safety provisions in their homes and offices. Despite spending millions on security annually, MPs continue to call for stronger protections. Labour MP Sam Rushworth, who faced persistent death threats from a constituent, shared how these experiences deeply affected his family. Similarly, Labour MP Natalie Fleet described receiving daily death threats and the strain it places on her personal and professional life. The newly formed Democracy Protection Portfolio within the National Police Chiefs’ Council aims to address these threats seriously, acknowledging that they are not idle but real dangers that require urgent action
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