Addressing National Security Challenges
Since the last session of the House, we have been reminded of the various threats facing our nation. These encompass not only the dangers posed by extremists and terrorists but also the risks associated with foreign powers attempting to undermine our security. Such threats have targeted individuals, businesses, and essential infrastructure; however, they ultimately represent assaults on our core values and way of life. The primary responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety and security of its nation. Therefore, I intend to provide an update on our response to these threats and the measures we are implementing to protect our country and its citizens.
To begin with, I must address the issue of terrorism and extremism, particularly a case that has been at the forefront of many minds in this House. It has been three months since the tragic murder of Ann Widdecombe at her residence in Devon, an event that continues to evoke sorrow in our hearts. On 2nd October, a suspect was charged with a terrorism-related offence, specifically for plotting an act of terror against the leader of Reform UK, the Honourable Member for Clacton. This news is deeply distressing, not only for him but for his family as well, and I extend my sincerest condolences during this harrowing time. As previously stated, an attack against any one of us is an attack against us all.
Solidarity in the Face of Threats
It has come to my attention that other Members, as well as members of the public, have been approached by law enforcement concerning this case. To all those affected, I offer my heartfelt sympathies and solidarity, echoing the sentiments I have shared with the Honourable Member for Clacton. In times like these, it is crucial that we unite as a cohesive House. For those who serve in politics, it is a vocation, and while robust debate and criticism are essential components of this role, threats, abuse, and violence are wholly unacceptable. Today, we remember Ann Widdecombe, Sir David Amess, and Jo Cox—three cherished colleagues and steadfast advocates for our democracy. It is our duty to ensure that those who serve, at all levels, receive the protection they deserve.
We must ensure that every avenue was explored to prevent this particular attacker from causing harm. The Independent Office of Police Conduct is currently investigating the response to an attempted break-in at the Honourable Member’s home last year. I have urged them to conduct this investigation thoroughly and promptly, with expectations for its completion by early next year. However, I advise caution in pre-empting the findings of that inquiry. Regardless of its outcome, it is evident that there is inadequate protection for those who serve in public office. Consequently, I am announcing today an immediate expansion of police support for political figures who are not currently Members of Parliament, including former Members, peers, and party spokespersons. They will now have access to a designated police officer and assistance with broader security measures.
Comprehensive Review of Protective Security
In addition to expanding police support, I am launching an independent, comprehensive review of the protective security provided by the state to individuals in public life. This review will be led by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, the former national security adviser, and will scrutinise protective measures from multiple angles, including physical threats, online risks, and the dangers posed by our increasingly polarised society. It will engage directly with ministers, Members of Parliament, and other prominent figures in public life. The review is expected to report within six months and will complement Sir Robert Buckland’s ongoing investigation into the tragic killing of Sir David Amess. While this is an independent inquiry, I am committed to ensuring that its findings will lead to tangible change, reallocating state resources to better protect those individuals and locations that require it most.
Remembering Victims of Terrorism
The threat of terrorism extends beyond those in public office. Recently, we commemorated the first anniversary of the horrific attack on the Heaton Park synagogue. On that tragic day in October last year, as our Jewish community observed Yom Kippur, two courageous individuals—Melvin Cravitz and Adrian Daulby—lost their lives, and three others sustained serious injuries. It is vital that the events of that day are thoroughly examined, and as per the coroner’s request, I am announcing a public inquiry into the deaths of Mr Cravitz and Mr Daulby. This inquiry will ensure that all evidence, including sensitive national security material, is heard in full.
Sadly, the incident at Heaton Park is part of a troubling pattern of attacks against our Jewish community over the past year. These incidents have included the stabbing of two Jewish men in Golders Green, a failed attack on the Israeli Embassy that resulted in a 20-year prison sentence for the perpetrator, and a series of arson attacks across North London. Just last month, immediately before Yom Kippur, we thwarted a potentially lethal plot against the Jewish community in Manchester, resulting in two Iranian nationals being charged with terrorism offences. I commend the police and security services for their exemplary professionalism in navigating these complex investigations.
Strengthening Security for Vulnerable Communities
In light of the threats facing our Jewish community, we have allocated an additional £250 million in funding to the police to enhance their presence in key Jewish areas and to combat antisemitism on our streets. However, we recognise that we cannot simply erect barriers around our Jewish communities and expect them to live in fear. It is essential that we eradicate antisemitism wherever it exists in society. This Government is resolutely committed to this mission, actively tackling antisemitism across all sectors, whether online, in educational institutions, within public services, or on the streets.
The threats to our Jewish community illustrate the increasingly blurred lines between extremism and state-sponsored threats. We are aware that the Iranian state is actively targeting our Jewish population. Earlier this year, the Islamic Movement of Companions of the Right (IMCR) claimed responsibility for arson attacks in North London, a group that is believed to be linked to members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). This reflects a broader trend in which states like Iran employ proxies to carry out hostile activities within the UK, exploiting naïve individuals or criminal elements to attack our nation while maintaining plausible deniability.
Countering State-Sponsored Threats
This brazen threat demands our vigilance, and we will not tolerate it. That is why, earlier this summer, we expedited the National Security (State Threats) Act through Parliament. This legislation has established stronger powers and more severe penalties to address state-backed threats to our domestic security, including designating both the IMCR and the IRGC as threats.
Recent events at RAF Fairford further underscore the seriousness of these threats. Our assessment indicates that these events were likely coordinated by an individual based in Iran, with direct involvement from the IRGC. The Foreign Secretary has summoned the Iranian Ambassador to express our condemnation of Iran’s ongoing attempts to compromise our safety. Additionally, we are imposing sanctions on two individuals implicated in espionage and attacks on behalf of the Iranian government in Europe and the United States, and we will take further measures to diminish Iran’s capacity to threaten international security.
Heightened Vigilance Against Global Threats
It is crucial to note that the threat landscape extends beyond Iran. As the conflict in Ukraine enters its fifth winter, the Kremlin continues to lash out at European nations. Together with the EU, we have attributed a cyber attack on Poland’s energy grid last December to Russia, which posed a risk of disrupting electricity for half a million residents. Domestically, we are addressing threats as well. Last month, a British citizen was charged under the National Security Act for alleged contact with Russia’s military intelligence, and a Royal Navy sailor has also been charged under the same legislation for suspected espionage on behalf of Russia.
We remain equally vigilant regarding threats from China. MI5 has recently warned universities and academics to sever ties with the China General Technology Research Institute, which has been funding research in the UK with the primary aim of enhancing China’s espionage operations. Individuals who continue to collaborate with this organisation risk facing criminal charges for aiding a foreign state, potentially resulting in lengthy prison sentences.
A Multifaceted Response to Complex Threats
The threats we confront today are intricate and frequently interlinked, targeting communities and citizens, the critical infrastructure upon which we rely, and the institutions that underpin our democracy. Our response to these escalating threats is rightly multifaceted. We are addressing extremism in both our communities and the online realm. In our social cohesion plan, “Protecting What Matters,” we have outlined a series of measures to combat this menace, which includes banning those who seek to enter our country to propagate hatred and committing to an annual State of Extremism report that will identify the threats we face and equip frontline professionals with the tools to counter them.
We are also adapting to the evolving nature of violent threats. In response to the horrific events in Southport, we have taken steps to mitigate the risks posed by individuals fixated on violence. This includes improving the handling of repeat Prevent referrals and clarifying that referrals can be made to Prevent without a clearly identifiable ideology. The Online Safety Act has also mandated stronger age verification and safety measures for thousands of online services.
Ongoing Commitment to National Security
When addressing state-sponsored threats, it