Ann Widdecombe, former Conservative MP and Reform UK member, dies aged 78 Ann Widdecombe, a prominent Eurosceptic and social conservative known for her sharp political career and later television presence, has died at the age of 78. Her management confirmed her passing, highlighting her enduring influence in politics and public life. Widdecombe, who served as a member of Parliament and an MEP, was a key figure in the Brexit movement and remained active in Reform UK even after leaving parliament. Widdecombe’s political career spanned several decades, during which she held ministerial roles in John Major’s government. She frequently clashed with fellow Conservatives, including Michael Howard and Michael Portillo, over policy disagreements. Her critiques of Howard’s leadership and Portillo’s political tactics were well-documented, with her famously stating she would never have served under Portillo if he had become Tory leader. A vocal Eurosceptic, Widdecombe was a leading advocate for the Vote Leave campaign during the 2016 Brexit referendum. Her socially conservative views, which included opposing abortion rights and LGBTQ+ rights, were central to her political identity. She also faced criticism for supporting a policy that chained pregnant prisoners to their beds, a stance that drew widespread condemnation. Beyond politics, Widdecombe became a household name through her appearances on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing in 2010, where she partnered with Anton Du Beke. Despite her efforts, she reached only the quarter-finals, a performance that became a defining moment of her post-parliamentary career. Her management described her as a “consummate professional” and “indefatigable to the last,” noting her ability to engage audiences with her unapologetic approach.#kemi_badenoch #nigel_farage #reform_uk #ann_widdecombe #john_major
