Home secretary expands police support to political figures who are not MPs

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has announced that political figures who are not currently members of parliament will be given police support, the BBC reported on October 12. Shabana Mahmood told members of parliament that there was insufficient protection for people who serve in public life. [1][2][3]

The BBC reported that the new protection measures will cover members of the House of Lords, former members of parliament, and political party spokespeople. Shabana Mahmood also announced an urgent independent review of security arrangements for high profile public figures, including politicians and members of the royal family. [1][2][3]

According to the BBC, the security changes come three months after former Conservative member of parliament and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe was murdered at her home in Devon. Ann Widdecombe was found dead after being struck on the head with a hammer 21 times while eating lunch. [1]

The BBC reported that 28-year-old Joshua Kerry has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe. [1]