Counter-terrorism police have announced that they are now leading the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe in light of new evidence. A 28-year-old man was arrested on Saturday, 11 July, at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of the murder of Widdecombe after she was found with serious injuries at her home in Dartmoor, Devon on Thursday.

Head of National Counter Terrorism Policing Laurence Taylor said: "We are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack.”

He said the priority was progressing the investigation quickly and appealed to anyone with information to share it with the police.

"Our priority is progressing this investigation quickly, with all the capabilities we have available to us. If anyone has any information, please share it with the police.”

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said in response to the development: “The police are pursuing multiple lines of enquiry to establish the motivation for this attack. I will be updating the House further this afternoon. 

“My thoughts today remain with Ann’s family and friends, and all those who loved her.”