A 28-year-old man has been arrested in South Yorkshire on suspicion of murder following the death of Ann Widdecombe.
Devon and Cornwall police stated that Widdecombe was found with serious injuries at her home on Dartmoor in Devon on Thursday. Police believe the attack took place on Wednesday July 8 at around 12.30pm.
A July 12 police statement said: "Shortly after 9pm on Saturday 11 July, a 28-year-old white British man was arrested at an address in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on suspicion of the murder of Miss Widdecombe."
"At this time, there is still no information to suggest that this is a terrorism related incident. And at this point we are not looking for anyone else in connection with the murder. We retain primacy of this investigation and Detectives remain open minded about any potential motive, but at this stage there is nothing to suggest that it was politically motivated."
Bishop Nicholas Hudson of Plymouth has said Ann Widdecombe was a "a woman of faith and a great public servant" following the opening of a murder investigation into her death.
Bishop Hudson told the BBC: "Our prayers, the prayers of all the community, across Plymouth Diocese, in Devon, Cornwall, Dorset, are very much with her and with her family and friends."
Mass was said for Widdecombe on 11 July at 12pm in Buckfast Abbey.
Widdecombe’s management team, Cloud9 Management, said: "We fully support the police in their investigations and we reiterate the family’s desire not to be contacted at this difficult time. We implore anyone who may have relevant information to contact Devon and Cornwall Police."
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: "I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ann Widdecombe. The circumstances of her death are extremely distressing and my thoughts are with Ann's family and loved ones. Ann's dedication to public service was decades long, and she was a true servant of her constituents.
"I have spoken to the Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall police today. The Home Office stands ready to provide whatever support they need with their ongoing investigation. I urge everyone to avoid speculation and allow the police investigation to progress."
We ask you to pray for the repose of her soul.
More to follow.
