Police say man arrested on suspicion of murder of Ann Widdecombe – UK politics as it happened

July 2026 · 6 minute read

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Police say man arrested on suspicion of murder of Ann Widdecombe

Devon and Cornwall police have confirmed that a 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of the murder of Ann Widdecombe this afternoon.

The man, who police confirmed is a white British national, was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot.

Key events

Closing summary

We will soon be closing this liveblog, but find our latest reporting on UK news here.

Here is a summary of today’s headlines:

Zack Polanski, leader of the Green party, has paid tribute to Widdecombe:

“Shocked to hear the news about the circumstances of Ann Widdecombe’s death.

My thoughts are with her loved ones at this distressing time.”

There is a heavy police presence outside of Ann Widdecombe’s home in Dartmoor, where she was found deceased by police officers yesterday morning.

Here are some images:

An aerial photograph of Widdecombe’s house, with police cars outside.
A heavy police presence outside of Anne Widdecombe’s house in Devon, where she was found deceased yesterday morning. Photograph: Sky News
Two police officers stand outside of the house.
Police outside the house of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor in Dartmoor. Photograph: Matt Keeble/PA
A sign that reads “Widdecombe’s rest”.
A sign outside the house of Ann Widdecombe in Haytor in Dartmoor. Photograph: Matt Keeble/PA

Assistant chief constable Matt Longman said that there was “no information” at this time to suggest the murder of Ann Widdecombe was a politically motivated crime.

He also said that the inquiry is “in its early stages” but “moving at significant pace”.

Matt Longman on a podium addressing journalists.
Assistant chief constable Matt Longman, of Devon and Cornwall Police, speaks at a press conference at the force HQ in Exeter about the murder investigation into Ann Widdecombe. Photograph: Rod Minchin/PA

The incident is not being treated as a terrorist incident, despite Devon and Cornwall police consulting counter terrorism policing as part of the initial inquiry.

Police say man arrested on suspicion of murder of Ann Widdecombe

Devon and Cornwall police have confirmed that a 26-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of the murder of Ann Widdecombe this afternoon.

The man, who police confirmed is a white British national, was arrested at an address in Newton Abbot.

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said that he was “shocked” to learn of the circumstances around Widdecombe’s death.

“The police investigation must now take its course and I hope anybody with relevant information will contact them.”

We are still waiting for the news conference by Devon and Cornwall police to begin. It has been delayed, and we are not exactly sure what time we will hear from them but we expect it to be soon.

You can watch along in the feed at the top of this blog when it begins.

Angela Rayner, Labour MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, has called the circumstances of Ann Widdecombe’s death “deeply disturbing and distressing”.

She added: “It’s right that we pay tribute across the divides to Ann’s many years of public service.”

Wes Streeting, Labour MP for Ilford North, has said that Widdecombe’s “untimely death” is “deeply chilling”, in a post on X.

Burnham sends 'deepest condolences' to Widdecombe's family

A spokesperson for Andy Burnham has said: “Andy’s deepest condolences and thoughts are with Ann’s family today, in incredibly distressing circumstances.

Ann gave a lifetime of public service, and it’s absolutely right that the police put all their resources into investigating this as swiftly as possible.”

Prime minister says suspect is 'clearly dangerous' and urges public to help with information to catch him

Speaking to broadcasters at Chequers, Keir Starmer has said that the suspect is “clearly dangerous”.

He said he would not speculate about the potential motive, but urged the public to help catch the suspect.

“He’s clearly dangerous, and I implore everybody who’s got any information in relation to him to help the police with their inquiries, get him into police custody.”

Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, has said that he is “really shocked and distressed at the news about Ann Widdecombe.”

In a statement posted on X, he said “She was a woman of deep faith who devoted her life to public service. The idea that she could have been murdered is truly horrifying.

My thoughts and prayers are with her family and all who loved her.”