Free Republic

British counter-terrorism police are now leading the investigation into the death of the former MP and Reform spokesperson Ann Widdecombe in a shock development that has renewed the debate over the security of politicians. Widdecombe’s body was found with serious injuries by the ambulance service at her home in Haytor Vale, Devon, at 11.40am on Thursday. A 28-year-old man from Rotherham is being held in custody on suspicion of her murder. In a dramatic change of position on Monday, counter-terrorism policing south-east (CTPSE) said it was now leading the investigation after officers at Devon and Cornwall police had earlier said...

The residents of the tiny village of Haytor Vale - where neighbours are accustomed to feeling so safe they can leave their doors unlocked - are a community in shock. Home to fewer than 200 people and nestled on the edge of Dartmoor, this peaceful valley is reeling with the knowledge that police suspect foul play in the death of the former government minister. Widdecombe was found dead on Thursday morning. As a police investigation and manhunt continues - and amid the tributes and grief - there is also whispered concern that a perpetrator could still be at large. "It...

A 26-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murdering Ann Widdecombe has since been released from custody and is no longer part of the investigation, police say. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman, of Devon and Cornwall Police, said the force's "priority remains identifying those responsible and ensuring that all available evidence is thoroughly examined". He went on: “Detectives continue to carry out numerous enquiries as part of the ongoing investigation and we remain committed to establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident."

Apple filing a lawsuit against "Open AI"... Trump speaking with Saudi ruler Crown Prince... Iran's Foreign Ministry contradicting US President...repeated US violations...will be met with reciprocal action... US is demanding Iran make public statements... US sanctions on Iran piling up... Kiev under Russian attack late tonight... In the UK an arrest...murder of former MP and cabinet minister Ann Widdecombe... This evening a nationwide power blackout in Cuba... Venezuela death toll from the double earthquakes...4,118... official casualty count of the Iran War updated with one additional... group of US senators reaching agreement with the White House on tightening sanctions against Russia......

Ann Widdecombe, a British former MP and television star, has been murdered. British police are investigating the death of Ann Widdecombe, 78, who was found wounded and deceased in her Devon, England, home on July 9. According to the Daily Telegraph, the Devon and Cornwall Police are now looking for “a white male” as a suspect in her death. Widdecombe’s death was announced in the British newspapers this morning without reference to foul play. A Catholic convert and pro-life politician, Widdecombe endeared herself to Britons with her surprisingly popular appearances on television shows Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother....

Thought for the day If you believe in a truly libertarian society, your only way to success is in working to build a society based upon traditional morality, shame and chastity. Contradictory? Actually, no. Given a little examination, it turns out to be rather obvious; almost self-evidently true. If you want to live in a country where every man supports himself rather than looking to the taxpayer, where crime is rare and so massive police powers, ID cards and DNA databases are superfluous, you will not do so on the back of the destructive policies of social liberalism. Libertarians traditionally...