Police are investigating an alleged spiking at one of Parliament’s bars, it has been revealed.
Officers launched a probe after receiving reports of an incident at around 6.30pm on Tuesday 7 January – just a day after MPs returned from their Christmas recess.
According to the Politico website, a female parliamentary researcher alerted bar staff and parliamentary security to her drink being tampered with in Stranger’s Bar.
It is one of several drinking spots in Parliament and is open to MPs, parliamentary staff and guests.
The alleged spiking is likely to renew debate over the sale of alcohol in Parliament, with Westminster having previously been criticised over a ‘culture of drinking’.
The Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme – Parliament’s official complaints system – said in a 2023 report that a ‘culture of drinking in Westminster’ was a ‘frequent factor’ in conduct-breaching incidents.
The alleged spiking is likely to renew debate over the sale of alcohol in Parliament, with Westminster having previously been criticised over a ‘culture of drinking’
A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said: ‘Police received reports of an alleged spiking at an establishment in the House of Commons, on Tuesday, 7 January at around 18:30hrs.
‘The investigation is ongoing and the victim is being supported by officers. There have been no arrests at this stage.
‘We would encourage anyone who believes they have been a victim or witness to spiking, in any form, to contact us on 101, or 999 in emergency.
‘Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.’
A UK Parliament spokesperson said: ‘We are aware of an incident which took place on the parliamentary estate in early January, which was reported to parliamentary security and is now being investigated by the Metropolitan Police.’
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