Farage's Deputy Claims Security Concerns Were Ignored Amid Terror Plot Charge
Richard Tice stated that Nigel Farage was not taken seriously regarding safety threats, following charges against a man accused of plotting an attack.
Nigel Farage's security concerns were not adequately addressed, according to his deputy, Richard Tice. Tice made the statement Saturday after Joshua Kerry, 28, was charged with preparation of terrorist acts, including an alleged plot against Farage.
"What’s particularly upsetting for those of us in and around him is sometimes he’s not being believed, not being listened to," Tice told the BBC, describing the charge as a wake-up call.
Authorities have not released extensive details regarding the charge. However, counterterrorism police had previously reopened an investigation into an alleged firebomb attack at Farage's south London home in August. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood expressed sympathy for Farage, stating on X, "Let no one make any mistake: an attack on anyone in politics is an attack on us all." Mahmood added that she would work to enhance protections for politicians once Parliament returns from recess on October 12.
Kerry was also previously charged with murder in connection with the death of former British politician Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead at her home in July. Widdecombe, 78, had served as a spokesperson for the Reform Party after a long career as a Conservative Member of Parliament and government minister. Her killing had reignited concerns over the security of politicians, a topic that has gained prominence following the murders of Jo Cox in 2016 and David Amess in 2021, both prominent MPs.
Tice indicated that the party had engaged in several high-level meetings with the government concerning security, suggesting a shift in approach by authorities to treat threats more seriously. Kerry is scheduled to appear in Westminster Magistrates' Court on Wednesday to face the new charge.