Police Bolster Support for MPs Amid Surging Threats
Police forces across the UK are now receiving enhanced specialist support from a newly established national democracy protection unit. This initiative aims to tackle the escalating level of threats and abuse faced by Members of Parliament.
New Leadership for Democracy Protection
Chris Balmer has been appointed to lead this crucial new endeavour, tasked with assisting forces in investigating and combating "anti-democratic crimes." This move comes in response to a sharp increase in reported incidents against MPs.
Alarming Rise in Incidents
Data reveals a concerning trend: reports of crimes against MPs have more than doubled since 2019, with almost 1,000 incidents recorded last year. This surge is predominantly driven by allegations of harassment, criminal damage, and threats to kill.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis recently underscored the gravity of the situation, stating, "The volume, breadth and tempo of threats against elected representatives is unprecedented." Mr. Balmer's role will involve coordinating intelligence, advising on crime categorisation, and providing specialist support to officers.
Increased Security Measures and Ongoing Concerns
Between 2019 and 2025, the Metropolitan Police's Parliamentary Liaison Team recorded 4,064 crimes against MPs. Malicious communications were the most frequent offence, totalling 2,066 incidents over this period. Death threats also saw a rise, with 50 reported in 2025, up from 31 the previous year.
While physical violence reports have fluctuated and remain comparatively low, the overall escalation of threats is a significant concern. Security measures for MPs have been expanded following the tragic murders of Jo Cox in 2016 and Sir David Amess in 2021, with considerable increases in security spending.
However, many MPs, including Labour MP Kim Leadbeater, sister of Jo Cox, believe more needs to be done. She expressed concern that nearly a decade on from her sister's murder, the situation has worsened, highlighting a broader societal issue in how people engage with differing viewpoints.
The Democracy Protection Portfolio, led by Mr. Balmer, will operate under the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC). The unit's establishment follows an inquiry into the security of MPs, which found that 96% of MPs had personally experienced one or more incidents of threatening behaviour or communication. Mr. Balmer noted that female and ethnic minority candidates are disproportionately targeted, stressing that these are not "idle threats," referencing the tragic loss of life in recent memory.
