The Home Office will extend police protection to some political figures who are not MPs, and launch an urgent review of security for politicians and royals. The move follows concern over threats and violence after several high-profile political killings.
01Summary
- 01Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said police support will be extended to peers, former MPs and party spokespeople.
- 02She said there was "insufficient protection" for those serving in public life and said support would include a named police officer and help with wider security measures.
- 03An independent review of security arrangements will be led by former national security adviser Stephen Lovegrove and will report within six months.
- 04The review will examine physical threats, online risks and the dangers posed by a more polarised society.
- 05The announcement comes three months after former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe was found dead at her home in Devon, and after the murders of Sir David Amess in 2021 and Jo Cox in 2016.
02Why it matters
The changes could affect how much protection is available to people in public life beyond Parliament. They also signal renewed concern about threats, abuse and violence against politicians.
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