The UK government has announced an expansion of police support to political figures who are not Members of Parliament, following a rise in threats and a high-profile murder. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood stated that peers, former MPs, and party spokespeople will now be eligible for police assistance.

This decision comes three months after the murder of Ann Widdecombe, a spokeswoman for Reform UK and former Conservative MP, who was attacked at her home. The suspect in her murder also faces charges related to preparing terror acts against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, including alleged research into his London residence.

Mahmood informed Parliament that the existing protection was insufficient for those serving in public life. She indicated that the new support measures would include access to a named police officer and assistance with broader security arrangements. “Robust debate and criticism are part of this job – threats, abuse and violence are not,” she stated.

In addition to extending police support, an urgent, independent review of security arrangements for prominent figures, including politicians and royals, has been commissioned. This review will be led by former national security advisor Stephen Lovegrove and is tasked with examining physical threats, online risks, and dangers within a polarized society. It is expected to report within six months.

The safety of politicians has been a significant concern in recent years, marked by the murders of MP Sir David Amess in 2021 and MP Jo Cox in 2016. Mahmood emphasized the government's commitment to ensuring that all individuals serving in public roles receive adequate protection, stating, “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.”

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp welcomed the move, describing threats to elected representatives as threats to democracy. Reform UK’s home affairs spokesperson, Zia Yusuf, also endorsed the review but expressed disappointment that it took the murder of a colleague and extensive campaigning to prompt government action. Reform UK had previously accused the government of negligence regarding Nigel Farage's security, a claim the Home Office denied.

Decisions regarding the security of current MPs and members of the House of Lords are managed by Parliament's security team. High-profile political candidates are handled by a separate independent committee, the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), comprising officials from the Home Office, Cabinet Office, and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

The Jo Cox Foundation acknowledged the home secretary's announcement but stressed that enhancing physical security alone is insufficient. The foundation advocated for addressing the root causes of threats, including online harms and educational initiatives, to prevent future violence.