Chris Mason on Widdecombe: Pugnacious, charismatic and she always answers the question.

You can see it in the facial expressions of our political leaders and hear it in the tone and tone of voice.

People in Westminster and beyond have been shocked by news of the inquest into Anne Widdecombe’s death. The grief felt at the loss of so many friends is accentuated by the horror of learning about the terrible situation later on.

Police said they had “no information” to believe the incident was a “politically motivated crime”.

However, at such moments in public life, after the murders, over the past decade, Labor MP Jo Cox and Conservative MP Sir David Ames recall their fame and vulnerability.

Anne Widdecombe was an unusual character.

People will have strong opinions about her strong views, of course – in strong agreement and strong disagreement.

It’s been a great privilege in my career alongside my current job to do any question on Radio 4, she was one of my favorite panellists.

Every weekend, in front of live audiences in school halls, village halls, church halls and educational theaters, I feel those guests who can connect with the audience – between political views. They can irritate, challenge, engage and occasionally provoke. Forcing the people in the room to sit up and catch that conversationalist’s gaze.

In other words, those who are most adept at prosecuting what public life means in a democracy are able to articulate clearly and honestly what they stand for.

To represent the listener’s own worldview, or perhaps its polar opposite. Some of her words wash over anyone – they splash in the listener’s face and demand a response.

Anne Widdecombe was sassy, ​​sassy, ​​barbed and, yes, silly.

And she answered the question. Honestly, I couldn’t thank every guest for doing that.