Security for politicians and royals to be reviewed

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced on Monday, October 12, that an independent review will examine the security arrangements for politicians and royals. The review aims to assess how existing security is provided and whether current funding and measures are being used effectively.

This announcement comes in the wake of the killing of Ann Widdecombe and an alleged terror plot targeting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. Ms Mahmood informed the House of Commons that police support will be extended to political party leaders who are not Members of Parliament, as well as former MPs and peers.

Review to Build on Previous Work

The independent review will be led by former national security adviser Sir Stephen Lovegrove. Ms Mahmood stated that this review will build upon the work already being undertaken by Sir Robert Buckland, who is conducting a separate inquiry into the murder of Sir David Amess.

Ann Widdecombe, 78, a spokeswoman for Reform UK, died on July 8 after being attacked at her home in Haytor, Devon. The man accused of her murder, Joshua Kerry, 28, faces further charges related to an alleged plot against Nigel Farage. Mr Kerry is accused of attempting to gain entry to Mr Farage's south London home on April 19 last year.

Ms Mahmood told the Commons that "threats, abuse and violence are not" part of public life, and that "an attack on any individual in public life is an attack on every one of us, and it is an attack on democracy itself." She added, "We owe it to those public servants we have tragically lost, and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country, to ensure those who serve receive the protection they deserve."

Effective immediately, police support will be expanded to include former MPs, peers, and party spokespeople, providing them with access to a named police officer and assistance with wider security measures. Ms Mahmood stated that regardless of the outcome of the investigation into the incident at Mr Farage's home, it is clear that "insufficient protection" exists for those serving the public.

Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle indicated that he had not been informed about which MPs were named on a list uncovered during the investigation, expressing concern about receiving such information through media reports. He noted this lack of direct communication puts MPs at a disadvantage regarding their health, wellbeing, and security.