Reform UK proposes £100m 'round-the-clock' security plan for MPs

Key Points:

• Reform UK’s home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf announced a policy to provide all 650 MPs with 24/7 protection, costing up to £100 million, also extending security to former politicians still active in public life based on threat assessments.
• The announcement follows the targeted killing of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, prompting calls from Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Labour MP Andy Burnham for improved security measures and a serious review of MPs’ safety.
• Security funding claimed by MPs was £4.38 million in 2021/22 and £3.88 million in 2022/23, with responsibility for security funding transferring to the House of Commons in April 2023; all MPs are reportedly offered appropriate security measures.
• Yusuf criticized rival parties for harsh language against Reform UK and emphasized the need to stop equating the party with murderous regimes, while defending his own use of strong language against political opponents.
• A House of Commons spokesperson stressed that MPs’ security arrangements are based on rigorous, risk-based assessments involving security professionals and police to ensure members can perform their duties safely.