Topic analysis

Security vetting stepped up after MP is given bodyguard with far-right links

Security firm Mitie, holder of a £31m UK MP close protection contract, has tightened vetting processes to include regular and random social media checks for operatives after an incident where an MP was assigned a bodyguard with far-right links. The change comes amid unprecedented rising levels of threats, harassment, and violence against UK MPs from extremist groups, which officials warn is harming democratic participation, particularly for women and ethnic minority representatives.