Reform UK Deputy Leader: Farage's Security Concerns Were Ignored

Nigel Farage's security concerns were sometimes ignored or disbelieved, according to Reform UK's deputy leader Richard Tice. His comments come after Joshua Kerry, 28, was charged with preparing acts of terror, including against Farage, between May 2024 and July 2026. Kerry had previously been charged in July with the murder of Ann Widdecombe, a former Reform UK spokeswoman and Conservative minister.

Tice described the situation as "particularly upsetting" for those close to Farage, noting that "sometimes he is not being believed or listened to." He expressed "deep shock" over the new charges against Kerry and a "sense of deep regret over everything that has happened over a long period of time." Tice told the BBC that while security is a general concept for those in public life, incidents that hit "close to home" are "pretty shocking."

The murder of Ann Widdecombe has prompted a more serious approach to security for everyone involved in politics, Tice said, calling it a "significant wake up call" with a "big personal impact."

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, who called an attack on anyone in politics "an attack on us all," has followed up on her promise to discuss security with Farage. Tice confirmed that meetings have occurred between Reform UK officials and individuals at a high level regarding security. "Things are kept under close and constant review with regards to the information and intel I now get on threats towards myself and others," he stated, appreciating the "significant shift in the approach taken by the authorities."

Tice revealed that his own life has changed due to security threats, including one incident near Parliament that required an immediate police response. "I now have security arrangements and one is constantly thinking when you are in any building 'do we know the back exit? Do we know the front exit?'" he explained, adding that these concerns have become a reality.

He warned that the climate of abuse and threats against politicians deters people from entering public life and makes democracy less accessible. Tice noted that female MPs, in particular, face a "horrific torrent of abuse and misogynistic attacks." This deterrent effect, he said, causes potentially good people considering public service to step back, questioning the impact on their families.

Additional security measures, such as fences outside Parliament, are an "unfortunate consequence" of the increased threat level, making it "harder to essentially feel a part of the democratic process." Tice also identified the area around Parliament as particularly dangerous, describing it as a "cauldron" attracting both legitimate engagement and "lone individuals." He recounted a personal experience in this area that necessitated the swift attendance of armed police.

Joshua Kerry, of Rotherham, South Yorkshire, is due to appear in court on Wednesday for the terror charge. Prosecutors are working closely with the police on the ongoing investigation.

Reform UK had previously stated that Farage needed "£5m to protect his security for life," referring to a £5 million gift from Reform donor Christopher Harborne before Farage returned as an MP in 2024. Farage has claimed this money was intended for his personal security due to ongoing threats.

Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP for Maidstone and a minister in the 1990s, was found dead at her home on July 9. She had served as Conservative MP for Maidstone for 23 years.