Security for politicians and royals is to be reviewed after the killing of Ann Widdecombe
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told MPs on Monday that security arrangements for politicians and members of the royal family will be urgently reviewed after the killing of Ann Widdecombe, the Guardian, BBC, Telegraph and Mirror reported. The BBC said police support is being extended to political figures who are not MPs. The Mirror reported that she said an attack on any politician is an attack on all, and that Ms Widdecombe's suspected killer has been charged with a terrorism offence.
Threats to public figures affect who is willing to stand for office and how open politics can be. A review that reaches beyond MPs signals that the risk is seen as wider than Parliament.
Expect more visible policing at public events and possible changes to how MPs hold local meetings.
Supporters say protection must be tightened now.
Others warn that heavier security can distance politicians from voters.
The detail to watch is what is published of the review's scope, and whether councillors and candidates are covered.
DailyDrop U.K. edition No. 9 · Morning · TUE., OCT. 13, 2026