The investigation into the killing of former British minister and MP Ann Widdecombe has been transferred to the anti-terrorism unit of Scotland Yard. A 28-year-old man arrested in connection with the death is now suspected of committing, preparing, or instigating acts of terrorism.

Widdecombe, 78, was found dead on Thursday in her countryside home near Dartmoor National Park in south-west England. Police have not disclosed the cause of death, stating only that the woman had sustained serious injuries.

Initially, authorities had indicated that the case was not believed to be terrorism-related or politically motivated. The shift to the anti-terrorism unit represents a significant development in the investigation, though police have stated they continue to follow multiple investigative leads.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, from the Labour government, updated the House of Commons on the case. She praised Widdecombe and urged everyone to avoid political speculation on the incident, a call echoed by shadow minister Chris Philps from the Conservative opposition.

The arrested man was not previously known to authorities and was not flagged under the British Prevent program, which monitors radicalization and terrorist activity of any nature.

Mahmood acknowledged that questions remain regarding the protection of public and political figures in the United Kingdom. The government has also offered Reform UK leader Nigel Farage the opportunity to attend a meeting on the Widdecombe case.

Widdecombe was a prominent figure in British politics for decades. She served as Member of Parliament from 1987 to 2010, holding several positions including Minister for Prisons under Prime Minister John Major in the 1990s. She was known for her socially conservative stances. After leaving Parliament, she gained public attention through appearances on television programs such as Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother. She subsequently joined the Brexit Party and became a spokesperson for Reform UK alongside Nigel Farage.

Reform UK officials have expressed concerns about the security of their representatives. Zia Yusuf, Reform's home affairs spokesperson, stated that no one in government, police, or parliamentary leadership is genuinely concerned about the safety of Reform UK parliamentarians.

Farage described the killing as a premeditated murder, while police have maintained caution regarding the political motive hypothesis.