Ann Widdecombe, 78, was found dead in her home in Haytor, Devon, last Thursday. A 28-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of her murder and terror offences. The killing has reignited a fierce debate about politician safety, with Green Party leader Zack Polanski telling BBC Breakfast that he is “worried about it both for myself and for all party leaders” and has not been offered state security.
Polanski said he “hadn’t been offered anything at all” despite repeated concerns. He described two existing policing provisions – Operation Ford for councillors and Operation Bridger for MPs – but noted his unusual position as a London Assembly member and party leader left him uncovered by either. “The Home Office since the local elections have reviewed that and now I fall under Operation Ford,” he said. “I welcome the movement on that and that’s provided me with some extra safety and some extra steps.”
“Green Party leader Zack Polanski says he hasn't been offered state security after Ann Widdecombe's murder”
The Green Party does pay for some private security for its leader. Polanski has previously spoken of “heightened intrusion and safety risk” as well as “antisemitic and homophobic abuse” since taking the role, with two arrests made by police.
His call comes amid a growing chorus of concern. Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham said a “serious review” of MPs’ security is needed after politics had “darkened” over the past decade. “It’s easy to blame social media, but it feels like it’s having some impact in just building that kind of toxicity that’s around the political debate,” he said. The debate follows a row between Reform UK and the government over security for its leader Nigel Farage, with Reform’s Treasury spokesman Robert Jenrick making accusations of a “dere…” (the BBC report cut off).
A Home Office spokesperson said: “No politician should be facing the threat of violence, abuse, or harassment – they must be able to go about their vital work safely and freely. The government keeps security provisions for elected representatives under regular review.” Representatives are encouraged to liaise with their local police force if they have concerns.
Polanski’s plea leaves a question hanging over how far the state should go to protect politicians – and at what point the duty falls on parties themselves.
