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A newly established national democracy protection unit is set to provide specialist assistance to police forces grappling with a significant rise in threats and abuse directed at Members of Parliament (MPs). The alarming trend has seen reports of crimes against MPs more than double since 2019, with nearly 1,000 incidents recorded last year alone, predominantly involving harassment and threats to life.
Rising Threats to Elected Representatives
The national initiative, spearheaded by police chief Chris Balmer, aims to combat what has been termed “anti-democratic crimes”. Recent statistics reveal that MPs logged 4,064 incidents with the Metropolitan Police’s Parliamentary Liaison Team between 2019 and 2025, marking a sharp increase from 364 reported cases in 2019. The most common offences included malicious communications, harassment, and criminal damage, while the number of death threats reported rose from 31 in 2024 to 50 in 2025.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis underscored the unprecedented nature of these threats, noting the urgent need for authorities to adapt to the evolving landscape of abuse faced by elected officials. In his correspondence with Balmer, Jarvis emphasised the importance of timely responses to these escalating threats.
Support Framework for MPs
Balmer’s role will entail coordinating intelligence regarding threats to politicians, advising local police forces on how to classify anti-democratic offences, and offering expert guidance to officers investigating such incidents. Although the number of reported physical assaults against MPs has fluctuated—peaking at 14 in the lead-up to the 2024 general election—the overall figures remain concerning, particularly given the emotional toll on MPs and their families.
Labour MP Sam Rushworth, who has had to enhance security measures at his home following repeated death threats, highlighted the profound impact such threats can have on family life. “My wife asked me if we could move. My kids asked me if I could change jobs,” he recounted, attributing the rising hostility to a culture of misinformation propagated by some politicians and media outlets.
The Human Cost of Political Hostility
Natalie Fleet, another Labour MP, has reported daily death threats, an unsettling reality that has led her family to express concerns about her safety in politics. An incident involving a social media post that called for her to be “shot” further exemplifies the risks MPs face. Following this, Fleet noted a surge in the volume and graphic nature of threats, compelling her to increase her interactions with the police.
Balmer’s Democracy Protection Portfolio, which operates under the auspices of the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), was formed in response to a comprehensive inquiry into the safety of MPs and candidates. The inquiry revealed that a staggering 96% of MPs had encountered threats or intimidating behaviour, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced protective measures.
The Role of Online Platforms
Balmer also addressed the dual nature of threats, highlighting a concerning trend where both online and offline targeting are prevalent. He expressed particular concern for female candidates and those from minority ethnic backgrounds, who are disproportionately affected by such hostility. “These are not idle threats,” Balmer cautioned, referencing high-profile cases where threats have culminated in tragic outcomes.
The national unit will not only provide necessary resources to local forces but also work to foster a safer environment for MPs, particularly as the political landscape continues to evolve in a climate of increased animosity.
Why it Matters
The establishment of this new unit is pivotal in safeguarding the democratic process and ensuring that elected representatives can perform their duties without fear of violence or harassment. As threats against MPs reach alarming levels, this initiative reflects a broader commitment to protect the integrity of political discourse in the UK. Failure to address these issues could undermine public trust in governance and discourage individuals from entering public service, ultimately eroding the foundations of democracy itself.
