The National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), a division of MI5, had advised politicians and other high-risk individuals to establish safe rooms within their homes, a directive issued just three months before the killing of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe. The guidance aimed to help those considered vulnerable to potential attacks by "hostile actors."
The NPSA's advice, published online, included recommendations for creating a sheltered area within a residence, equipping it with features like fog machines and bulletproof walls to impede intruders, and maintaining indoor lights to suggest occupancy. It also suggested trimming perimeter bushes to reduce hiding spots for potential attackers.
Individuals deemed "high-risk" by the NPSA are defined as those with a public profile who engage with contentious issues or possess information valuable to adversarial states. The security service had been providing such advice for an extended period due to escalating threats against public figures.
Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead in her cottage in Haytor, Dartmoor, on July 8, having sustained serious injuries. Detectives believe the attack occurred around 12:30 p.m. on July 8. Her address had been publicly known for years, and while she had security cameras, she had reportedly declined additional security measures.
Widdecombe, a Reform MP, was known for her outspoken stances on issues such as abortion, gay rights, and immigration. Specialist officers from Counter Terrorism Policing took over the investigation on July 13, despite initial police statements indicating the murder was not politically motivated. Home Office minister Shabana Mahmood confirmed to Parliament that the arrested suspect had not been known to the Prevent anti-extremism program.
On July 11, authorities arrested 28-year-old Joshua Kerry at his home in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of Widdecombe's murder. Forensic officers were observed entering the suspect's residence following the arrest. Reports suggest the suspect traveled approximately 267 miles from Rotherham to Widdecombe's property on the day of the killing.
The incident has led to renewed calls for enhanced security for politicians. In Parliament, Sir Keir Starmer noted that three serving or former MPs have been murdered during his 11 years in the House, referencing the deaths of Jo Cox and Sir David Amess. He suggested that a tribute similar to those for Cox and Amess could be considered for Widdecombe, adding that "we must do more to defend our democracy."