New Unit to Tackle Surging Threats Against UK MPs
National Police Unit Formed to Safeguard Democracy
Police forces across the United Kingdom are now receiving enhanced, specialist assistance from a newly formed national democracy protection unit. This crucial development addresses the escalating volume of threats and abuse confronting Members of Parliament (MPs).
Chris Balmer has been appointed to spearhead this national endeavour, with a mandate to help forces investigate and rigorously tackle what are being termed "anti-democratic crimes." Data reveals a stark increase in reported offences against MPs, with figures more than doubling since 2019, reaching nearly 1,000 incidents last year. This surge is primarily driven by allegations of harassment, criminal damage, and chilling threats to kill.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis recently underscored the gravity of the situation, describing the "volume, breadth and tempo of threats against elected representatives" as unprecedented. He highlighted the critical importance of keeping pace with this evolving threat.
Balmer's remit involves co-ordinating intelligence on threats to politicians, advising police forces on the categorisation of these anti-democratic offences, and offering specialist support to officers investigating alleged perpetrators. Between 2019 and 2025, the Metropolitan Police's Parliamentary Liaison Team recorded 4,064 crimes against MPs. The most prevalent offences were malicious communications, followed by harassment and criminal damage to property. Worryingly, reported death threats increased from 31 in 2024 to 50 in 2025.
The establishment of this unit within the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) comes in response to an inquiry into the security of MPs, candidates, and elections. This inquiry revealed that a staggering 96% of MPs had personally experienced one or more incidents of threatening behaviour or communication. Balmer acknowledged a clear spread of both online and offline targeting, noting particular concern for the disproportionate targeting of female candidates and those from ethnic minorities within the UK. He emphasised that these are not "idle threats," referencing the tragic murders of Jo Cox in 2016 and Sir David Amess in 2021.
While security measures, including Operation Bridger, have been expanded since these atrocities, many MPs, including Labour's Kim Leadbeater, sister of Jo Cox, believe the situation has worsened. She stressed that this is not only a political problem but a broader societal issue regarding the ability to engage in civil discourse. Recent examples, such as Labour MP Sam Rushworth's experience with repeated death threats, underscore the profound impact on MPs and their families, often leading to calls for career changes or relocation. Similarly, Labour MP Natalie Fleet reported receiving daily death threats, highlighting the substantial time commitment required to ensure personal safety, diverting focus from constituency work. The new unit aims to provide comprehensive support to address these critical challenges and protect the integrity of the UK's democratic process.
