University Investigates Employee's Social Media Comments
The University of Aberdeen is conducting an investigation into social media remarks made by an employee concerning the death of former Member of Parliament Ann Widdecombe.
Heather Herbert, reportedly a web developer at the university, posted messages expressing that Widdecombe's death was "good news" and expressed hope that it was an "extremely painful death."
The university stated that the incident, which occurred prior to the politician's death being treated as an alleged murder, is currently under review.
Police Scotland confirmed that no criminal offence has been identified in relation to the comments.
Details Surrounding Ann Widdecombe's Death
Ann Widdecombe, aged 78, was found deceased on Thursday at her residence in Haytor, Devon, having suffered serious injuries.
A 28-year-old white British man has been arrested in connection with the case.
Reports indicate the suspect was captured on CCTV entering a vehicle carrying an object, though police have stated there is no indication of a political motive behind the killing.
Background on Heather Herbert
Heather Herbert, a transgender activist, has previously stood as a Labour candidate in Aberdeen Donside during the 2021 Scottish Parliament election and as a Green Party candidate in a 2022 Aberdeen council by-election.
University of Aberdeen's Response
A spokesperson for the University of Aberdeen said:
"The university is aware of social media posts made by a member of staff regarding the death of Ann Widdecombe and is reviewing this as a matter of priority.
The comments that have been shared are entirely the individual's own and do not represent the views of the University of Aberdeen.
Complaints into any member of staff are handled confidentially through our established processes."
Principal Professor Peter Edwards added:
"Ann Widdecombe was a highly-respected figure in both the Westminster and European parliaments.
The University of Aberdeen does not tolerate violence or hateful behaviour in any form.
We are aware of the incident and the concerns that have been raised and are looking into the matter as a priority."
Police Scotland Statement
A spokesperson for Police Scotland stated:
"We have received reports relating to a post made online.
The information has been assessed and no criminality has been established."
BBC Scotland News has attempted to contact Heather Herbert for comment.
Ann Widdecombe's Career and Legacy
Ann Widdecombe served as the Conservative MP for Maidstone for 23 years and held ministerial positions in John Major's government from 1994 to 1997.
After leaving the House of Commons in 2010, she participated in BBC's Strictly Come Dancing that same year and was a runner-up on Celebrity Big Brother in 2018.
In 2019, she joined the Brexit Party and represented South West England as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) from 2019 to 2020.
Relatives of the former minister, who later became a spokesperson for Reform UK, are receiving support from specialist officers.
Related Coverage
More stories from North East Scotland, Orkney, and Shetland are available, including coverage of the village's reaction to the "horrific" murder case involving Ann Widdecombe.
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