Mahmood launches urgent review into protective security for high-profile figures

Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today. Join today Already a member? Log in Mahmood launches urgent review into protective security for high-profile figures George Lithgow & James C. Reynolds Monday 12 October 2026 23:11 BST Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks Close popover Farage: Reform safety ‘only taken seriously’ after Ann Widdecombe’s death as firebomb probe reopened Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has launched an urgent independent review into protective security for high-profile public figures, led by former national security adviser Sir Stephen Lovegrove. The review follows the murder of former minister and Reform UK spokesperson Ann Widdecombe in July. Police support is being expanded with immediate effect to include non-MP party leaders, peers, former MPs, and political spokespeople. The measures come after suspect Joshua Kerry was accused of terrorism offences targeting Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and researching other prominent politicians. Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle criticised authorities for failing to inform him which MPs were included on the suspect's alleged target list. In full Security arrangements for high-profile public figures to be reviewed urgently, Shabana Mahmood says