Intelligence officers have issued an urgent warning to politicians to build bulletproof safe rooms in case of an attack.

British intelligence agencies have urgently advised politicians and public figures to construct secure rooms within their homes capable of withstanding bullets, citing potential threats from hostile actors. This warning comes amid growing concerns over rising political tensions and the influence of social media platforms, according to recent reports. The recommendation was issued several months prior to the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe, who was found dead in her home in Devon following a targeted attack. Police confirmed that the incident has been classified as a possible terrorist act after new evidence emerged during the investigation. The National Protective Security Authority (NPSA), a division of MI5, has issued detailed guidelines for high-profile individuals, including MPs, local council members, and political dissidents. These measures include the installation of bulletproof glass, steel panels, security cameras, and even specialized emergency communication devices. Additionally, the NPSA recommends the use of smoke generators designed to fill a room rapidly with dense fog, making it difficult for intruders to navigate. Light timers are also suggested to create the illusion that someone is present in the house even when they are not. Other recommendations include trimming hedges and shrubs around properties to reduce hiding spots for potential attackers. The warnings follow a broader reassessment of existing security protocols, prompted by the increasing toxicity of political discourse and the role of social media in amplifying hostility. Future Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced plans to review current safety measures, emphasizing the need for enhanced protections given the evolving threat landscape. The cost of securing MPs' residences in the United Kingdom has already reached tens of millions of pounds annually, with additional safeguards introduced after the 2021 murder of MP David Amess. The latest guidance from MI5 underscores the gravity of the risks faced by British politicians today. The incident involving Ann Widdecombe has intensified scrutiny over the vulnerability of public figures. She was discovered with severe injuries in her home in Devon, and police have arrested a 28-year-old man suspected of the killing. Surveillance footage released by The Sun showed the suspect entering a car shortly before the attack with a long object visible in his pocket. The case has since been handed over to counter-terrorism police, indicating a shift in the initial assessment that did not suggest a political motive. The ongoing investigation continues to explore whether the attack was linked to extremist activities. Public reaction to the new security recommendations has varied. Some lawmakers have expressed concern over the implications of such heightened precautions, while others argue that these measures are necessary given the current climate. The government has not officially commented on the specific advice from MI5, though officials have acknowledged the need to adapt to emerging threats. Meanwhile, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of elected representatives and other public figures, particularly in light of past incidents that have highlighted vulnerabilities in existing security frameworks. The situation has also drawn attention to the broader issue of political violence and its potential links to radicalization. Intelligence agencies continue to monitor developments closely, with particular interest in how social media platforms contribute to the spread of extremist ideologies. As discussions around national security intensify, the emphasis on proactive measures to protect key individuals appears to be growing. Recent actions by Argentina, which withdrew a military maneuver shortly after defeating England in a sports match, have added another layer of complexity to the geopolitical context surrounding these security upgrades.