Shabana Mahmood: Widdecombe murder suspect not known to Prevent
8 reported
Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood told MPs that the suspect in the murder of former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe was not known to the Prevent counter-extremism program. Counter-terrorism policing has taken the lead in the investigation, with national head Lawrence Taylor stating new information and evidence prompted the shift. The suspect is a 28-year-old white British man in custody. Mahmood cautioned against speculation and urged space for police work. The Commons debate also covered security for MPs and former MPs, with Mahmood offering Reform UK leader Nigel Farage a meeting with the head of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec). Several MPs raised concerns about online hate, social media companies, and the disclosure of MPs’ home addresses.
What’s reported
The suspect in Ann Widdecombe’s murder is a 28-year-old white British man in custody.
The suspect was not known to the Prevent program, Mahmood confirmed.
Counter-terrorism policing now leads the investigation, per Lawrence Taylor.
Mahmood offered Nigel Farage a meeting with the chair of Ravec.
Mahmood said she would consider providing security guidance for former MPs.
Bernard Jenkin stated MPs are statistically more likely to meet a violent death than armed forces or police members.
Helena Dollimore urged action on media showing identifiable details of MPs’ homes.
Lucy Powell called for tougher action against social media companies over online hate.
Key figures
Shabana Mahmood, Justice Secretary
Ann Widdecombe, former Conservative MP (deceased)
Lawrence Taylor, head of national counter-terrorism policing
Nigel Farage, Reform UK leader
Robert Jenrick, Reform UK Treasury spokesperson
Lee Anderson, Reform UK MP
Mark Francois, Conservative MP
Bernard Jenkin, Conservative MP
Helena Dollimore, Labour MP
Julian Lewis, Conservative MP
Richard Tice, Reform UK deputy leader
Lucy Powell, deputy Labour leader
Max Wilkinson, Liberal Democrat home affairs spokesperson
Zia Yusuf, Reform UK figure
Diane Abbott, Labour MP (Mother of the House)
Chris Philp, shadow home secretary
Lindsay Hoyle, Commons speaker
Sources: The Guardian
