With permission, Mr Speaker, I wish to make a statement about the death of Ann Widdecombe.
It is with great sadness that I say those words.
My thoughts today are with her family.
Her friends.
And all those who loved her.
Ann Widdecombe dedicated her life to politics and public service.
For nearly 40 years, she was a fixture of our political life.
She brought conviction to our politics, grounded in her profound Catholic faith.
She was forthright in her opinions, and argued courageously for the things she believed in.
But, perhaps most of all, she brought an inimitable style to politics.
She was forthright and fearless.
As Lord Howard of Lim can attest.
She had a memorable turn of phrase.
And she was joyful.
She thought seriously about ideas.
But she did not take herself too seriously.
And that allowed her to reach beyond this place.
And charm the country at large.
She was one of those rare politicians who was bigger than politics.
There have been so many moving tributes in the last few days.
Reflecting her impact both within this place and beyond politics.
But I think her outlook on life is best summed up by Ann herself.
Sitting on Graham Norton’s sofa, she said – and I quote
We get one go this side of eternity – one go.
Life is not a dress rehearsal, you take opportunities that you like and you go for it.
Ann took her opportunities.
She was the proud MP for Maidstone for 23 years – a champion of her constituents.
She served the country, in government, as Minister for Employment and then Prisons Minister.
She took politics out of these ancient walls.
And became a bone fide TV star.
Her contribution to our politics and our national life will never be forgotten.
Mr Speaker, on Wednesday Ann Widdecombe was murdered in her home.
The circumstances of her death are extremely distressing.
Counter terror policing have now taken the lead in the investigation.
As Laurence Taylor, the Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing has said – and I quote
We now have new information and evidence that means Counter Terrorism Policing is leading the investigation…
We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.
The police now have a suspect in custody.
A 28-year-old white British man.
And I can confirm to the House that this man was not known to Prevent.
The police have cautioned against speculating about the case.
That is the right thing to do for Ann’s family and friends.
It is also vital that the police are given the space they need to carry out their work.
For now, what matters most is supporting the investigation.
So that we can see justice delivered for Ann and all who loved her.
And I would urge anyone, with any information at all, to come forward immediately.
Mr Speaker, I know this raises questions about the security of those in public life.
I will not be the only one here thinking also of two other beloved members of this House Jo Cox and Sir David Amess.
Politics is a calling, for those of us here.
But it should not be a dangerous one.
And so it is incumbent on the House and the government to work together to protect those who choose to serve.
The Home Office and the police work closely with the Parliamentary Security Department, to provide practical advice and support directly to MPs.
But we must always be vigilant to changing threats, and respond.
Security measures are kept under constant review to ensure MPs can carry out their duties safely.
And I know the police intend to issue guidance to MPs soon.
And they will be contacting Parliamentarians in their constituencies to offer support.
I also recently commissioned the former Lord Chancellor, Sir Robert Buckland, to review the lessons from Sir David Amess’s murder.
Including into required improvements to security for MPs working in their constituencies.
I recognise the particular concern that the Reform Party will feel today.
And of course, Nigel Farage, the party’s leader.
I am happy to offer a meeting for Mr Farage with the Chair of RAVEC.
The independent body within the Home Office that manages the security of those in public life.
I will also be looking at what security guidance can be provided to former Members of Parliament.
Which I hope to work with you on, Mr Speaker.
As well as those who serve a party outside of this place.
Today, is a dark day in our political life.
But we must also use it as an opportunity to celebrate Ann Widdecombe’s memory.
She was a unique figure in our politics.
A distinctive and devoted public servant.
The likes of whom we will rarely, if ever, see again.
Ann had a profound faith.
Her journey in this life has ended too soon.
May she now rest in eternal peace.
I commend this statement to the House.