Parliament bar forced to shut amid police investigation into spiking claims

PARLIAMENT’S legendary Stranger’s Bar has been shut amid a police investigation into claims of spiking.

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle today ordered the venue to close and a security review to be carried out.

A female parliamentary staffer went to the Met Police after suspecting her drink had been tampered with.

The alleged spiking happened at around 6.30pm on January 7 just days after MPs returned from their Christmas break.

A House of Commons spokesperson said: “Strangers’ Bar will close from Monday 20 January while security and safety arrangements are reviewed.

"The safety of everyone on the estate remains a key priority of both Houses.”

Strangers’ is one of several drinking haunts in the Palace of Westminster, but the most famous.

The poky room - which backs onto the sweeping Thames-side terrace - is typically only for MPs, their guests and journalists.

MPs are often forced to leave their drinks unattended while they go to the Commons chamber to vote in the evening.

Downing Street this week urged a “common sense” by politicians but would not be more prescriptive.

The venue has been the scene of some controversy over the years, including when then-Labour MP Eric Joyce being dragged out by police following a drunken brawl.

A Met Police spokesman said: "The investigation is ongoing and the victim is being supported by officers. There have been no arrests at this stage."