A popular bar in Parliament, Strangers’ Bar, is set to reopen on 24 February with new security measures following a disturbing incident. The bar was closed last month after a woman reported that she believed her drink had been tampered with on 7 January. This allegation has cast a shadow over what was once considered a safe haven for MPs, peers, journalists, and parliamentary staff.
The Metropolitan Police are investigating the incident, though no arrests have been made. In response, parliamentary authorities have reviewed the venue’s security protocols to ensure that such behaviour is not repeated.
New measures to protect patrons
The House of Commons Commission has endorsed several changes aimed at safeguarding all who frequent the bar. The security upgrades include the installation of CCTV, an increase in the number of security guards, and comprehensive training for bar staff. Additionally, the bar will now display crucial drink safety information and provide access to schemes like “Ask for Angela”—a discreet system for anyone feeling unsafe to seek immediate assistance.
Mike Clancy, general secretary of the Prospect union (which represents some parliamentary staff), welcomed the improvements. He commented,
“The introduction of CCTV is a significant step forward. However, it is concerning that such measures were necessary in the first place. This incident highlights that modern behaviour in Westminster must be held to the highest standards.”
Reflecting on Westminster’s culture
This episode has sparked broader debate about the drinking culture at Westminster. Last year, a group of Labour backbench MPs proposed limiting alcohol sales during office hours in a bid to modernise Parliament. Moreover, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has strongly condemned drink spiking as a “disturbing and serious crime” that can have a lasting impact on victims.
The Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme (ICGS) has also criticised Westminster’s culture of heavy drinking, citing it as a frequent cause of complaints and breaches of the parliamentary code of conduct.
You may also like: WATCH: Farage’s voting record leaves Clacton in disbelief – “I thought he worked for us!”
