UK Parliament Closes Strangers' Bar Following Drink Spiking Allegation

The closure comes as police investigate the reported spiking of a parliamentary researcher’s drink earlier this month.

Strangers' Bar, located in the Palace of Westminster, will close starting Monday, January 20, for a security and safety review.
The closure follows an alleged drink spiking incident reported on January 7 by a parliamentary researcher, who alerted bar staff and security.
The Metropolitan Police are investigating the case, with no arrests made so far, and the victim is receiving support from officers.
The incident has renewed scrutiny over Westminster's drinking culture, with some calling for restrictions on alcohol sales on the parliamentary estate.
The UK government has committed to addressing spiking incidents through new legislation and training for bar staff, aiming to enhance safety nationwide.