Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and Member of the European Parliament (MEP) who later joined Reform UK, has died at the age of 78. Her management confirmed the news in a statement, expressing deep sadness and requesting privacy for her family.
Political Career and Ministerial Roles
Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP for the Kent constituency of Maidstone, later Maidstone and the Weald, from 1987 to 2010. During John Major's government, she held several ministerial positions, including roles at the Home Office. She famously clashed with her colleague Michael Howard, describing him as having "something of the night about him" when he was home secretary and she was a Home Office minister.
Her tenure was not without controversy; she faced criticism for defending a policy of chaining pregnant prisoners to their beds.
Post-Commons Career and Strictly Come Dancing
After leaving the House of Commons, Widdecombe appeared on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, partnered with Anton du Beke. She reached the semi-finals, surviving several weeks thanks to public votes.
Euroscepticism and Brexit Advocacy
Throughout her political life, Widdecombe was a prominent Eurosceptic. She supported the Vote Leave campaign during the 2016 Brexit referendum and later joined the Brexit Party in 2019. She served as an MEP representing South West England in Brussels from 2019 to 2020.
Reform UK and Immigration Spokesperson
In 2023, she joined Nigel Farage's Reform UK, the successor to the Brexit Party. She appeared at the party's conference the following year as Reform's immigration spokesperson.
Socially Conservative Views
Widdecombe was known for her socially conservative views, including opposition to abortion rights and wider LGBT rights during her Commons career.
A statement from her management read: "It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. We send our deepest condolences to Ann’s family and friends. We ask that the family’s wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected."
