The name of Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch was reportedly among more than 100 prominent individuals listed in a dossier found at the home of Joshua Kerry, the man charged with the murder of former Tory minister and Reform UK spokeswoman Ann Widdecombe. The dossier, discovered during police searches following Widdecombe’s death on July 8, is understood to include senior figures from both the Conservative Party and Reform UK, as well as independent MPs and other public figures.
Alongside Badenoch, other high-profile names allegedly found on the list include Shadow Foreign Secretary Tom Tugendhat, former Home Secretary Dame Priti Patel, Reform UK Chairman Lee Anderson, deputy leader Richard Tice, Treasury spokesperson Robert Jenrick, and independent MP Rosie Duffield. Several of those named have expressed concern over the delay in being informed about their inclusion in the dossier, with some accusing the police and the Home Secretary, Shabana Mahmood, of failing to provide timely security advice or notification.
Lee Anderson, MP for Ashfield and Reform UK chairman, criticized the communication from law enforcement, stating that local police had only recently informed him, with the Metropolitan Police—the lead force—unable to provide direct answers. Anderson described the situation as “shocking,” questioning the effectiveness of the response to potential risks against politicians and calling for better protection measures.
Kerry, 28, from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, faces multiple charges including the murder of Widdecombe and preparation for acts of terrorism targeting political figures. Prosecutors allege Kerry conducted online reconnaissance of prominent individuals and institutions between May 31, 2024, and July 8, 2026, which included identifying the home address of Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. Evidence was presented in court indicating an attempted break-in at Farage’s South London residence on April 20, 2025, where his partner found damage to the front door and a bottle of lighter fluid in the porch. A tool mark consistent with a 27mm blade was found on the door frame, leading police to investigate the incident as a potential attempted forced entry.
In August, counter-terrorism police reopened a previously treated attempted burglary inquiry regarding Farage’s home, following new connections to Kerry’s case. Farage referred to the incident as an attempted firebombing. The Metropolitan Police continues to lead the investigation, with Kerry remanded in custody ahead of a forthcoming hearing at the Old Bailey.
The Home Secretary has acknowledged the seriousness of the developments, indicating plans to enhance security measures for individuals in public life. Mahmood stated that once Parliament resumes, she intends to provide an update on efforts to strengthen protections for elected officials. The revelations have intensified debate over security protocols for politicians and whether authorities acted swiftly enough to address potential threats linked to Kerry before Widdecombe’s murder.