Home Secretary Oral Statement on National Security

Since the House last sat, we have received a reminder of the threats ranged against this country. This has included the danger posed by extremists and terrorists, but it has also comprised threats posed by foreign powers seeking to undermine our nation’s security. 

These threats have targeted people, businesses and critical infrastructure, but above all else, they are attacks on our values and our way of life. The first duty of government is the security of the nation – so today I will update the House on our response to these threats, and how we are acting to keep our country and our citizens safe. 

I will start with the threat posed by terrorists and extremists, and I know one case, in particular, will be on the minds of many in the House today. It is now three months since the murder of Ann Widdecombe at her home in Devon. We continue to mourn her loss. On the 2nd of October, the suspect was charged with a terrorism offence, including preparing an act of terror against the leader of Reform UK, the Honourable Member for Clacton. I know that news will have been deeply distressing for the Honourable Member. So, may I say to him, and to his family, they have my profoundest sympathies at what must be an awful time. As I have said before, an attack on any one of us is an attack on us all.