Liz Truss broke down in tears on stage as she led a tribute to Ann Widdecombe during a speech in London.
The former prime minister became emotional ahead of a minute’s silence during the inaugural Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) Great Britain session.
Ann Widdicombe, 78, was found dead in her home in Devon last week. On Tuesday, counter-terrorism police said she had been killed in a “targeted attack”.
Ms Truss honoured her long life of service, addressing a hall of attendees and introducing a slideshow of images of the former Conservative, Brexit Party and Reform UK politician.
“Before we start on this conference, I’d like to take time to pay our respects to the late Ann Widdecombe, who was brutally murdered in her home last week,” the former Tory MP began.
“I’ve known Ann for over 20 years. She was a deeply principled politician who stood for the very values we are fighting for at CPAC: free speech, patriotism and the family.
“She was courageous and fearless in standing up to the leftist drift we have seen in Britain. She was a kind and generous human being, and we are all so devastated that she has been taken from us.
“Now let’s reflect on Ann’s remarkable life,” Ms Truss said as she broke down in tears before the room held a solemn minute’s silence and applause.
WATCH THE FULL CLIP ABOVE
