Detectives have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ann Widdecombe’s death, The Independent understands.The former Tory minister’s death was announced by her management on Friday. Devon and Cornwall Police are expected to confirm more details at a press conference at 4.30pm.A statement from her management following her death said: “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.Throughout her political career, Miss Widdecombe was a prominent Eurosceptic and supported the Vote Leave campaign during the 2016 Brexit referendum.She became a member of the Brexit Party from 2019 and served as an MEP representing South West England in Brussels between 2019 and 2020 before joining Nigel Farage’s Reform UK in 2023.She was also known for her socially conservative views, which included opposing the legality of abortion and widening rights for the LGBTQ+ community during her Commons career.Top politicians pay tribute to Ann WiddecombeTributes to Ann Widdecombe flooded in from top politicians on Friday following news of her death.A spokesperson for Sir Keir Starmer said: “She was a distinctive figure in British politics for many years, and he pays tribute to the conviction and dedication with which she served her country.”Leader of the Reform Party, which Ms Widdecombe joined before her death, Nigel Farage said: “When Ann Widdecombe decided to stand for The Brexit Party in the snap 2019 European Elections, it was a big moment and huge boost.“The voters loved her. She played a decisive role in getting Brexit over the line and will be missed by us all.”Former prime minister Boris Johnson said she was a “heroic Brexiteer and a great speaker who could move Tory audiences to such ecstasy that she was a very hard act to follow”.Nicole Wootton-Cane10 July 2026 15:42Police to hold press conferencePolice will hold a press conference at 4:30 this afternoon where they are expected to give more details into their investigation into Ms Widdecombe’s death. Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman is expected to make a statement.Nicole Wootton-Cane10 July 2026 15:41BREAKING: Police launch investigation into Ann Widdecombe’s deathPolice are investigating the death of former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe, The Independent understands.Nicole Wootton-Cane10 July 2026 15:39