Police investigating the death of former British MP Ann Widdecombe have said there is currently “nothing to suggest” the attack was politically motivated, as detectives continue questioning a suspect arrested over the case.
Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that a 28-year-old white British man was arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday evening. Officers said they are not seeking anyone else in connection with the investigation.
Widdecombe, 78, was found dead at her home in Haytor, Devon, on Thursday after suffering serious injuries. Detectives believe she was attacked nearly 24 hours before her body was discovered.
Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman said investigators remained open-minded about the motive but stressed there was no evidence linking the incident to terrorism or political extremism.
“There is nothing to suggest it was politically motivated,” Longman told reporters, adding that officers did not believe there was any ongoing threat to the wider public.
The arrest was carried out shortly after 9 p.m. local time by Counter Terrorism Police North East and South Yorkshire Police on behalf of Devon and Cornwall Police. Authorities said specialist counterterrorism officers assisted because of operational resources rather than any indication the case was terrorism-related.
Police said Widdecombe’s family had been informed of the latest developments and continued to receive support from specialist family liaison officers.
Investigators have received more than 120 pieces of information from members of the public following appeals for assistance. Longman urged anyone with information who has not yet contacted police to do so as quickly as possible.
He also appealed for restraint on social media, warning that speculation about possible motives could hinder the investigation and cause additional distress to Widdecombe’s relatives. A heightened police presence will remain in the Haytor area in the coming weeks while inquiries continue.
Chief Constable James Vaughan praised officers involved in the investigation, describing it as an extraordinary response to the murder of a prominent public figure. He said detectives had worked at “lightning pace” over the past two days and welcomed the arrest of a suspect.
Widdecombe served as Conservative MP for Maidstone for 23 years and held ministerial posts in the government of former Prime Minister John Major between 1994 and 1997. After leaving Parliament in 2010, she remained a familiar public figure through television appearances, including BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother.
Tributes have continued to arrive from across Britain’s political spectrum. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer described her death as a significant loss and called for unity beyond political differences. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch remembered Widdecombe as a “fun and feisty woman,” while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage called her a remarkable defender of free speech. Shadow Chancellor Mel Stride praised her conviction, energy and sense of humor, while longtime driver Peter Horrell said she had never expressed concerns for her safety and deeply enjoyed living in her Devon village.
