British Labour MP (2015–2016); advocate for Syria, murdered in 2016
Joshua Kerry has been charged with the murder of Ann Widdecombe and is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court. Police have said they believe the 78‑year‑old was attacked at her home in Haytor, Devon, on 8 July and found dead on 9 July. Counter-terrorism teams have taken the lead while investigators continue to probe motive.
Following the killing of Ann Widdecombe and a related arrest over a threat to Farage, Reform UK faces renewed security scrutiny. Counter-terrorism police are investigating the death; police report an arrest on suspicion of threatening communications to a MP in London.
Reform UK politicians face renewed scrutiny over protective security as counter-terror police lead the investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s death. Ministers are reviewing MP protection; Nigel Farage’s security package is under renewed debate after he reportedly declined a government offer.
Helen Grant has announced she will stand down at the next general election, saying her cancer-free status reinforces that it is the right time to pass the baton. She has served as MP for Maidstone and The Weald since 2010 and continues in Maidstone and Malling after boundary changes in 2024.
The Independent Commission on Community and Cohesion has launched the National Conversation to map what it means to be British and how communities connect. Co‑chaired by Sajid Javid and Jon Cruddas, the project seeks public input to shape long‑term policy, with concerns that funding gaps and hollowing-out of local government could limit impact.
Andy Burnham has ruled out financial compensation for Waspi women affected by the state pension age changes, but is open to other measures such as early concessionary travel. He is campaigning in Makerfield amid by-election pressure and faces scrutiny over past promises and Labour leadership ambitions.
The Mirror and Independent-led coverage reports a new national dialogue project, Britain Talks, launching in September to foster conversation across divisions following a decade of extremism and hate, with Jo Cox’s family and other bereaved parents leading the call for action.
The UK faces escalating tensions after rioting in Belfast and Southampton linked to a knife attack case. Government debates online safety measures as far-right actors and social media amplify calls for protests. Protests have targeted immigrants, with authorities promising action against incitement.
A fire at a Blairstown, New Jersey home has claimed the lives of Avery and Sheila Avery, a longtime local couple known for acting and community work. Firefighters recovered them after the blaze in the early hours of Tuesday; authorities say the cause is under investigation and not believed to be suspicious.
Ten years after the Brexit vote, economists say the UK’s economy is smaller than it would have been, with weaker investment and productivity. Public sentiment has shifted toward regret, while trade frictions and inflation persist. The path forward remains uncertain.
The Independent and The Guardian report on Ian McKellen and James Graham's film Love Letter to England, part of the National Conversation, encouraging public contributions on what unites the country ahead of England's World Cup knockout game.
Ann Widdecombe has been found dead at her Haytor, Devon, home after sustaining serious injuries. Police have arrested a 28-year-old man in Rotherham and counter-terrorism officers have taken over parts of the inquiry. Authorities say there is currently no information to indicate a political motive or that the attack is terrorism-related.
Counter-terrorism police are leading the investigation into the death of former MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found with serious injuries at her Devon home. A 28-year-old man is in custody on terrorism-related suspicion after authorities say new information has come to light. The suspect was re-arrested amid ongoing inquiries.
The investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s killing is led by counter-terrorism police. A 28-year-old suspect remains in custody on terrorism and murder charges. Politicians call for a serious review of MPs’ security as officials warn of a rising threat and debate about taxpayer-funded protection continues.
Keir Starmer has delivered a final PMQs, defending his record as prime minister while paying tribute to colleagues and supporters. MPs applaud as he says goodbye; Andy Burnham is expected to become the next prime minister on Monday after a turbulent two-year tenure.
Andy Burnham has taken office amid a national mood worn by rising living costs. He pledges to deliver more breathing space for households, while confronting a fragile economic backdrop and a political landscape shaped by Sir Keir Starmer’s departure and Billions of commentary on the UK’s global role.