Ann Widdecombe, Firebrand Conservative Who Later Joined Reform UK, Dies at 78

Guardian—Ann Widdecombe, the outspoken former Conservative minister and television personality who later became a vocal member of Reform UK, died at the age of 78. Widdecombe had been a polarizing fixture in British public life for decades, known for her staunch opposition to abortion, her strong Eurosceptic views, and her willingness to take controversial positions that often put her at odds with her own party leadership. She served in cabinet under Prime Minister John Major and later stood for the Brexit Party in European Parliament elections before joining Nigel Farage's Reform UK. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum, with admirers and critics alike acknowledging her as a rare conviction politician who never changed her views to suit the political weather.

• Guardian — Ann Widdecombe dies at 78 — former Conservative minister who later joined Reform UK.
• The Independent (UK) — Widdecombe was also a prominent television personality who appeared on reality and debate programs.
• The Irish Times — Widdecombe was known for her Eurosceptic politics and eventually left the Tories for Brexit Party and Reform UK.
• Sky News — Politics — Former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe dies
• BBC — Politics — Widdecombe served in cabinet under John Major and was a long-time Eurosceptic voice.