Strangers' Bar, a members-only bar within the Houses of Parliament, will close for a review of security and safety measures following an alleged drink spiking incident on January 7th. Scotland Yard is investigating the incident, and the victim is receiving support. This closure comes after a December 2023 report of inappropriate touching by former Tory MP Aaron Bell in the same bar.
A bar located within the Houses of Parliament, known as Strangers' Bar, is set to close its doors from Monday, January 20th, following allegations of drink spiking. The bar, exclusively accessible to MPs, their guests, and parliamentary staff, has become the focal point of a criminal investigation launched by Scotland Yard.
The alleged incident occurred around 6:30 pm on January 7th, when a female parliamentary researcher reported concerns to security and staff, claiming her drink had been tampered with. \Scotland Yard confirmed receiving the report and stated that the investigation is ongoing, with the victim receiving support from officers. No arrests have been made at this stage. The House of Commons spokesperson announced the closure to allow for a comprehensive review of security and safety measures, emphasizing the paramount importance of everyone's safety on the parliamentary estate. \This incident follows a December 2023 report alleging inappropriate touching by former Tory MP Aaron Bell in the same bar. A panel concluded Bell 'abused his position of power' by touching a woman 'on her left thigh, waist and bottom inappropriately and without her consent.' The GMB union, representing MPs' staff, welcomed the closure, highlighting the duty of care parliament authorities owe to the entire parliamentary community. The FDA union, representing civil servants and public sector professionals, expressed deep concern, urging parliamentary authorities to act swiftly to prevent future occurrences.
DRINK SPIKING PARLIAMENT UK POLITICS SECURITY REVIEW HOUSES OF PARLIAMENT
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