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A murder inquiry has been launched into the death of former British MP Ann Widdecombe after her body was found with serious injuries.
The former Conservative Minister, who also gained fame for appearing on Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, and who had become a spokeswoman for Reform UK in recent years, had a political career that spanned decades.
The 78-year-old former politician was found at her home in the remote area of Dartmoor in Devon on Thursday.
Police said she had suffered extensive and serious injuries, and said today that their investigation continues as a cordon remains in place at the rural property.
A spokesperson for the coroner’s office for Devon, Plymouth and Torbay, said this afternoon that “preliminary inquiries are ongoing,” as police confirmed a murder investigation had been launched.
British Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said in a post on X that the circumstances of Ms Widdecombe’s death are “extremely distressing,” adding that her thoughts “are with Ann’s family and loved ones.”
Police say they are looking for a man, described as a white male, in connection with the investigation, which they have said is “moving at a significant pace.”
Reports say Ms Widdecombe was found covered in blood, having suffered a head wound – with police not ruling out the possibility of foul play.
British police are to hold a news conference at 4:30pm.
Tributes had been paid earlier to the former Conservative MP turned TV personality.
Reform UK said Widdecombe was “the most significant woman in British politics since Margaret Thatcher.”
Labour politician and British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper paid tribute to Widdecome as a “formidable presence,” saying she would be greatly missed.
Shadow Home Secretary, Reform’s Zia Yusuf, said in a tribute on X that a recent lunch with Widdecombe had ended in Ms Widdecombe “saying she would write up her advice on sentencing reform, based on her vast experience.”
“I am so sad I shall never get to read it, nor enjoy such a lunch again,” said Mr Yusuf.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer this afternoon called the apparent murder of the “distinguished” veteran politician “shocking,” whilst adding that he would not speculate further on the case.
Mr Starmer, who said he has spoken to the Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police, has urged anyone with information to come forward, so that the suspect, “who is clearly dangerous, can be apprehended quickly.”
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