Former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe dies at 78

A significant story is unfolding on the international scene. Former Tory minister Ann Widdecombe dies at 78Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Ann Widdecombe, former Conservative MP, was elected as an MEP for the Brexit Party in 2019ByHarry SekulichPublished15 minutes agoFormer Conservative minister turned Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe has died aged 78. "It is with great sadness that today we announce the death of The Right Honourable Ann Widdecombe, DSG," a statement from her agents, Cloud 9 Management, said. "We send our deepest condolences to Ann's family and friends," they added.

Widdecombe's political career spanned decades, serving as MP for Maidstone in Kent for 23 years, before going on to join Reform UK. She also appeared on the 's Strictly Come Dancing and was a runner-up on Celebrity Big Brother in 2018. This breaking news story is being updated and more details will be published shortly.

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The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.