Ann Widdecombe defended Nigel Farage’s political strategy in her final interview before her death.
The 78-year-old, who also served as prisons minister and later became an MEP for the Brexit Party, was found dead at an address in Haytor, near Newton Abbott, after officers were called at 11.40am on Thursday (July 9).
A murder investigation is now underway, and a manhunt has been launched for a white male believed to be responsible.
Devon and Cornwall Police said Ms Widdecombe had sustained serious injuries.
Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson said: "This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe at this difficult time.
"Our murder inquiry is in its early stages but moving at a significant pace.
"We are deploying all of the necessary resources to find out exactly what has happened and to locate the person responsible who we believe to be a white male."
The Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, described the circumstances as "extremely distressing" and urged the public not to speculate.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said news of the murder investigation surrounding Ms Widdecombe's death was "really shocking", while Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said she was “stunned”.
I am deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ann Widdecombe. The circumstances of her death are extremely distressing and my thoughts are with Ann's family and loved ones.
Ann's dedication to public service was decades long, and she was a true servant of her constituents.
I…— Shabana Mahmood MP (@ShabanaMahmood) July 10, 2026
Ann Widdecombe's final interview before her death
Ms Widdecombe appeared on Talk TV the day before she was found dead at a property in Haytor, near Newton Abbott, on Thursday.
The former Conservative MP and Brexit Party MEP spoke with trademark conviction, supporting Nigel Farage’s decision to stand down as MP for Clacton earlier this week.
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Mr Farage resigned as MP for Clacton, triggering a by-election he now intends to contest.
He announced the move while under investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards over undeclared financial support, including a large gift reportedly worth around £5 million.
Mr Farage insists he has “done nothing wrong” and has not misused public money.
