Uk spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe has died at age 78

The Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe DSG, the formidable former Conservative Cabinet minister, Brexit Party MEP, and Reform UK spokesperson, has died at the age of 78. A statement released by her management confirmed her passing on July 10, 2026: "It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, DSG. We send our deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends. We ask that the family's wish not to be contacted at this sad time is respected." Known for her sharp wit, staunchly conservative views, and an unforgettable second act as a reality television star, Widdecombe was one of the most recognizable figures in modern British political history.
Widdecombe never shied away from controversy, consistently prioritizing her principles over party lines. One of her most famous political moments came when she publicly clashed with her former boss, Home Secretary Michael Howard, famously declaring that he had "something of the night about him." As a devout Christian, her legislative record was defined by traditional social conservatism. She staunchly opposed the legalization of abortion, voted against expanding LGBT rights during her Commons tenure, and fiercely opposed assisted dying. Following her departure from the House of Commons, she unexpectedly captured the heart of the British public on the BBC's Strictly Come Dancing in 2010. Despite consistently low scores from the judges, her charismatic, entertaining routines alongside Anton du Beke saw her survive all the way to the semi-finals via public voting. She later found reality television success again as the runner-up on Celebrity Big Brother in 2018. The Brexit Era and Reform UK Unable to stay away from the political arena during Britain's exit from the European Union, Widdecombe aligned herself with Nigel Farage. In 2019, she left the Conservatives to join the Brexit Party, successfully winning a seat as an MEP for South West England. In 2023, she transitioned to the party's successor, Reform UK, where she actively shaped policy and public messaging as the party’s spokesperson for Immigration and Justice up until her death. Her presence at national party conferences continued to draw major crowds, demonstrating her enduring influence on the British right.