Former Sky presenter Adam Boulton has drawn significant criticism for his choice of words when describing the late Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, calling her a "bruiser" and an "old maid" just hours after a murder investigation was launched into her death at the age of 78. Boulton, who now works for Times Radio, has refused to apologize, stating he "sticks to the facts" and had known Widdecombe "for decades."
Police initiated a murder investigation after the former prisons minister was discovered with "serious injuries" at her home in Dartmoor on Thursday. Concerns for her welfare had been raised when she failed to appear for an engagement on Jeremy Vine's Channel 5 show that morning. A 26-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder, and forensic teams are examining the circumstances surrounding her death.
During an appearance on Sky News, where he previously served as political editor for 25 years, Boulton remarked, "She was very much a spinster. By the end, I think you'd probably describe her as an old maid. Reportedly, she claimed that she was a virgin." He also referenced her university-era relationship with Colin Maltby, noting she did not find love again.
Boulton described Widdecombe's public persona, stating, "There weren't that many battling old ladies around." He added, "She was a major political character. Known for speaking without a written speech and wouldn't stand behind the lectern. She would stomp around the stage telling the delegates how she viewed the world. She was definitely a bruiser."
Widdecombe, known for her staunch conservative views, served as a Conservative MP for over two decades before becoming a Brexit Party MEP and joining Reform UK in 2023. She also gained public recognition through appearances on "Strictly Come Dancing" and "Celebrity Big Brother."
Following Boulton's comments, social media users and public figures voiced their disapproval. Commentator Nicholas Lissak called the remarks "misogynistic poison." Olympic swimmer Sharron Davies described them as "vile," and Reform UK member Ben Graham deemed them "Bizarre. Unnecessary. Completely out of touch." Former MP Louise Mensch also criticized the language as "misogynistic," arguing that such terms "grossly denigrate and demean women who do not marry. And our worth is more than a wedding ring."
Devon and Cornwall Police Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman stated that the case is "not being treated as terrorism" and there is currently "no information" to suggest it was politically motivated. Detectives are working to determine if there was any prior contact between the suspect and Widdecombe. Longman added, "This is an extremely tragic incident. Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Miss Widdecombe in this very difficult time."
Widdecombe, a devout Catholic, was a prominent figure known for her opposition to abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. She did not vote in favor of gay rights during her parliamentary career, opposing legislation such as civil partnerships and the Equality Act.
Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. Sir Keir Starmer described her as a "distinguished politician," while Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood called her a "true servant of her constituents." Nigel Farage remembered her as "a remarkable, principled woman," and Anton Du Beke, her former dance partner on "Strictly Come Dancing," expressed devastation, remembering her as "fun. She was upbeat. She was positive. She was supportive."