Robert Jenrick, a Treasury spokesman, accused the Labour party of "playing politics" with the safety of Reform leader Nigel Farage. Jenrick's remarks came amidst a controversy surrounding the security offered to Farage, particularly following the recent murder of Ann Widdecombe, a former Tory minister who joined Reform.
Widdecombe was found dead at her home on July 9. Senior figures within Reform have publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the security arrangements offered to their party and its leader. Last night, Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, offered Farage a meeting with the chairman of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), the body responsible for security provisions for high-profile individuals. However, Jenrick suggested this offer was politically motivated, stating that the Home Secretary could have arranged such a meeting a year or two ago and that her delay was an example of "playing politics with the safety of politicians" because "they don't like the views the Reform politicians take forward."
In the same interview with the BBC, Jenrick acknowledged that Farage had previously turned down an offer of state-funded security. According to a report by The i Paper, Farage was offered a taxpayer-funded bodyguard, car, and trained driver last year. He reportedly declined this offer, viewing it as a downgrade from his previous security arrangements, which included two cars, drivers, and police guards. Jenrick stated that Farage was initially provided with a "comprehensive plan" that he believed was commensurate with the threats Farage faced daily. He added that this plan was subsequently downgraded, though he did not know why.
A Home Office spokesperson categorically denied Jenrick's assertions, stating that neither the Home Secretary nor ministers are involved in providing security for MPs. The responsibility for protective security measures for Members of Parliament rests with the Parliamentary Security Department. The spokesperson confirmed that Farage has been offered a meeting with the chair of Ravec, described as an independently chaired committee managing security for public figures.