Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has rejected claims made by the Reform UK party that he does not prioritize the safety of their Members of Parliament. The Speaker stated that "every MP is equal" in terms of security arrangements, dismissing allegations from senior Reform figures who have complained about the level of security provided to them.
These complaints emerged in the wake of the suspected murder of Ann Widdecombe, a former Tory minister and Reform spokeswoman, who was found dead at her home on Thursday. Reform UK has reportedly begun funding round-the-clock security for their MPs and their home affairs spokesman, Zia Yusuf, citing fears of a potential copycat attack. The party has also accused the police, the government, and Commons officials of disregarding their recent appeals for assistance.
Richard Tice, the Boston and Skegness MP and Reform's deputy leader, expressed concern, stating, "It's as though someone in the establishment wants us dead. We're treated differently because of our views." Yusuf added, "The state is providing no protection whatsoever. In fact, based on what I have seen in the last 48 hours, none of the Government, the Speaker nor the police care at all about the security of Reform MPs."
Speaking in the Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle stated, "Just for the record, every MP is equal in their security to me. There is no difference between any member, I want to assure you." He explained that when security matters are brought to his attention, they are passed on to the appropriate security personnel for handling, expressing regret if some individuals feel this is not the case.
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has offered to arrange a meeting between Reform leader Nigel Farage and the chair of RAVEC (Royal and VIP Executive Committee), an independent Home Office body responsible for the security of public figures. Ms. Mahmood also indicated that she would be reviewing security advice for former MPs following Ms. Widdecombe's death. Farage accepted the offer, stating he would discuss the security of all Reform politicians, including those who are not MPs.
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into Ms. Widdecombe's death. A 28-year-old man arrested on suspicion of her murder has been rearrested on suspicion of terrorism-related offenses. The suspect was not known to the government's anti-extremism scheme, Prevent.
A spokesperson for the House of Commons emphasized that "all MPs are offered appropriate security measures" and that the safety of members and their staff is fundamental to democracy. Security assessments are conducted by professionals with input from the police and other authorities and are continuously reviewed. Sir Lindsay Hoyle has previously expressed deep concern for MPs' safety, stating it "keeps me awake at night."