Police investigating the death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe have released a 26-year-old man who had been arrested on suspicion of murder, saying he is no longer part of the inquiry.

© European Union 2019 / European Parliament / Wikimedia Commons
Ann Widdecombe, pictured in her official portrait as a Member of the European Parliament. — © European Union 2019 / European Parliament / Wikimedia Commons

The development leaves detectives continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the death of one of Britain’s most recognisable political figures. Widdecombe, who served as a Conservative MP for more than two decades before later becoming associated with the Brexit Party and Reform UK, was found dead at her home in Devon.

Police have said the investigation remains active and that officers are pursuing numerous lines of inquiry. According to reporting from the scene, investigators believe Widdecombe may have been attacked nearly 24 hours before she was found.

The case has drawn national attention not only because of the circumstances of her death, but because Widdecombe occupied a distinctive place in British public life. She was a minister under John Major, a long-serving MP for Maidstone and later Maidstone and The Weald, and one of the most outspoken social conservatives of her generation.

After leaving the House of Commons, she remained a familiar presence through television, public commentary and later political activity around Brexit. She also became known to a wider audience through appearances on programmes including Strictly Come Dancing.

Police have said there is currently no indication that her death was terror-related or politically motivated. That distinction is important in a case involving a former politician, particularly at a time when public debate around the safety of political figures remains sensitive.

For now, the investigation is focused on reconstructing the final period before Widdecombe’s death and establishing who was responsible. The release of the arrested man means police are still seeking answers rather than moving toward a confirmed suspect.

Tributes have continued from former colleagues, political opponents and members of the public, many of whom described Widdecombe as a politician of strong conviction, whether they agreed with her or not.

Her death has become both a criminal investigation and a moment of reflection on one of Britain’s most recognisable political careers.