Devon and Cornwall police arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of murdering former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe at her home in Haytor, Dartmoor. Officers discovered Widdecombe's body with serious injuries on Thursday morning at 11.40am after the ambulance service responded to her address in Devon.
Widdecombe, 78, served as a Member of Parliament for 23 years and held several ministerial positions during her career under Margaret Thatcher and John Major. She represented Maidstone and The Weald from 1987 until her retirement in 2010, and later became known for her media appearances and strong positions on social policy issues.
The arrest comes as police launched a full murder investigation into the death. Officers worked quickly to secure the scene and apprehend the suspect within hours of discovering her body. The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
Widdecombe remained politically active after leaving Parliament. She campaigned for UKIP, appeared regularly on television programs, and authored several books. Her death marks the loss of a prominent political voice who shaped debate on criminal justice, immigration, and constitutional matters throughout her three-decade public career.
The case has sent shockwaves through Westminster, where Widdecombe was a distinctive figure known for her moral clarity and willingness to take unpopular stances. Her colleagues and former political allies have expressed their shock at the news.
Devon and Cornwall police continue their investigation into the circumstances of her death. The arrested man remains in custody pending further inquiries.