Shabana Mahmood: “I believe the latest measures represented a "game-changing national crackdown".”

Those who enter public life do so to serve. Robust debate and criticism are part of the job. Threats, abuse and violence are not.

I can therefore announce today that I will expand, with immediate effect, police support to political figures who are not currently members of parliament.

We owe it to them and to everyone who believes in a fair and open country to ensure that those who serve at all levels receive the protection they deserve.

I would not hesitate to impose further measures on other countries refusing to co-operate.