Government expands police support to political figures who are not MPs

Political figures who are not currently MPs will be given police support, the home secretary has announced.

Shabana Mahmood told MPs there was "insufficient protection" for those serving in public life and that the new announcement will cover peers, former MPs and party spokespeople.

She also announced an urgent, independent review of security arrangements for high-profile figures including politicians and royals.

The announcement comes three months after Reform UK spokeswoman and former Conservative MP Ann Widecombe was found dead at her home Devon having sustained serious injuries.

Joshua Kerry, 28, has been charged with her murder, and he was also charged with preparing acts of terror against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.

Mahmood said on Monday: "For those who serve, politics is a calling, robust debate and criticism are part of this job, threats abuse and violence are not."

The safety of politicians has been a prominent issue in recent years, following the murders of Conservative MP Sir David Amess in 2021 and Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016.

"We owe it to them and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country to ensure that those who serve at all levels receive the protection they deserve," Mahmood added.

The independent review into security arrangements will be led by former national security advisor Stephen Lovegrove.