Police have launched an investigation into an alleged drink spiking incident at the Stranger’s Bar, located within the Palace of Westminster. The incident reportedly took place on the evening of Tuesday, 7 January, shortly after MPs and staff returned to work following the Christmas parliamentary recess.
The victim, believed to be a female parliamentary researcher, is said to have alerted bar staff after suspecting her drink had been spiked. According to reports, the incident occurred around 6:30 pm on the Parliamentary estate.
In a statement, a Metropolitan Police spokesperson confirmed: “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.”
The Palace of Westminster, known as the home of UK democracy, has several bars and restaurants accessible to MPs, peers, staff, and their guests. Stranger’s Bar is one of the most frequented venues on the estate. The alleged incident has raised significant concerns about the safety and security measures in place within this high-profile location.
A Parliament spokesperson stated: “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 Service.” The spokesperson emphasised the importance of providing a safe and secure environment for all who work and visit the estate.
The Metropolitan Police has urged anyone with information about the alleged spiking to come forward. “Anyone with information is asked to call, or 999 in an emergency,” the police advised. For those wishing to remain anonymous, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111.
Drink spiking incidents have been a growing concern across the UK in recent years, with several high-profile cases highlighting the need for vigilance and stronger preventative measures. Victims of drink spiking often report symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, nausea, and memory loss, making it difficult to determine exactly when or how the incident occurred.
The alleged incident in the House of Commons has drawn widespread attention due to the setting—a location that is supposed to represent the pinnacle of British democracy. Security measures on the parliamentary estate are known to be stringent, with access limited to pass holders and vetted guests. The investigation will likely examine how a suspected spiking incident could have occurred in such a controlled environment.
MPs and staff working on the estate have expressed their concerns. One anonymous source said: “This is deeply troubling. Stranger’s Bar is supposed to be a safe space where people can unwind after a long day. For something like this to happen here raises serious questions about security and oversight.”
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Campaigners against drink spiking have also weighed in, calling for increased awareness and preventative measures in both public and private venues. Sarah Green, a spokesperson for the End Spiking Now campaign, said: “This is another reminder of how drink spiking can happen anywhere, even in places where you’d least expect it. It’s vital that venues, including those as prestigious as the House of Commons, prioritise safeguarding measures.”
Parliamentary authorities are now under pressure to review existing security protocols and ensure the safety of everyone on the estate. Measures could include heightened surveillance in bar areas, enhanced training for staff to recognise and respond to such incidents, and clearer reporting mechanisms for victims.
While no arrests have been made, the Metropolitan Police’s investigation remains ongoing. The outcome of the inquiry will likely play a crucial role in determining whether further action is needed to address safety concerns within the Palace of Westminster.
For now, the incident serves as a stark reminder that drink spiking is a pervasive issue, affecting individuals in all walks of life and in settings ranging from local pubs to the halls of power.
