Britain is grappling with the death of Ann Widdecombe. The longtime Conservative MP, a steadfast advocate for Brexit and a vocal opponent of LGBTQ rights, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday. Police said the 78-year-old had sustained serious injuries. A murder investigation has now been opened.
A 26-year-old white Briton has been arrested on suspicion of murder, Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman of the Devon and Cornwall Police said at a Friday evening press conference. He declined to comment on a possible motive. There were no indications of a terrorist background, and no evidence that the crime was politically motivated. “This is an extremely tragic incident. Our thoughts are with the family and friends,” Longman said. Officials said they would use all available resources to determine the circumstances.
Britain’s most anti-LGBTQ politician
Widdecombe served for years as a Conservative MP in the British Parliament and later sat in the European Parliament as a representative of the Brexit Party, aligned with the pro‑Brexit cause. The politician who converted to Catholicism held ultraconservative views and long been regarded as one of the most anti-queer voices in British politics. As a Tory backbencher from 1987 to 2010, she fought to retain Section 28—the so-called “gay propaganda” law—and in interviews stated that homosexuality could not be an “equal lifestyle.” In a 2019 interview, she suggested that lesbians and gays could, in some circumstances, be “healed” (TheColu.mn reported). She also denied trans people the right to self-determination.
Widdecombe was not unfamiliar to British entertainment television either: she appeared on “Celebrity Big Brother.” On the program, she presented herself as a friendly grandmother and refrained from overt homophobic outbursts. Viewers ultimately placed her in second place—behind a drag queen (TheColu.mn reported).
Home Secretary Mahmood: Circumstances “extremely distressing”
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the death of the former MP as “extremely distressing.” “The Home Office is ready to provide any necessary support in the ongoing investigations,” the Labour politician wrote in a post on X. She urged the public to avoid speculation.
I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ann Widdecombe. The circumstances of her death are extremely distressing and my thoughts are with Ann’s family and loved ones.
Ann’s dedication to public service was decades long, and she was a true servant of her constituents.
IShabana Mahmood MP (@ShabanaMahmood) July 10, 2026
Prime Minister Keir Starmer also expressed his condolences, saying he was shocked by the news, according to the press agency PA.
Update 16:55h: Suspect released
In the alleged murder case involving the British Brexit politician Ann Widdecombe, there has been a surprising development. A 26-year-old man who was initially detained on suspicion of murder has now been released, the police said, according to PA. The Briton is no longer part of the investigation.
