Aberdeen University is investigating a staff member, Heather Herbert, a former Labour candidate and web developer, following social media posts made about the death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe. Herbert, who is also a trans activist, posted on the platform Bluesky that she hoped Widdecombe had suffered an "extremely painful death."
Herbert's comment, which stated, "Some good news for once. I hope it was an extremely painful death. I hope she was handcuffed to the bed as she screamed in agony," was made in response to a news report of Widdecombe's death. The university confirmed it is aware of the social media posts and is reviewing the matter as a priority, emphasizing that the comments do not represent the institution's views.
A petition has been submitted to Aberdeen University asking for a formal review of Herbert's remarks, expressing public concern and requesting the university to assess whether the comments align with its professional and ethical standards.
Herbert, when contacted by student newspaper The Gaudie, stated, "I don't want to see anyone murdered, but I'm still glad she is dead." She added, "I'm not a hypocrite. I posted that before the murder investigation was launched. I'm a nobody. I have no power to do anything. Ann Widdecombe was able to and made the lives of ordinary people hell."
Police were informed about Herbert's post, but a spokesperson stated that after assessment, "no criminality has been established."
Former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, 79, was found dead at her home with severe head injuries. Police are treating her death as a murder. A 28-year-old man has been arrested in South Yorkshire in connection with the incident. Widdecombe, a socially conservative politician, served as an MP for 23 years and later became a media personality and Brexit supporter. Forensic experts are continuing to search the arrested man's home in Rotherham, while police maintain a cordon around the property. Neighbors described the suspect as a "loner" who had rarely left his house since his father's death last year. Police have stated there is no evidence to suggest the murder was politically motivated.