PARLIAMENT has a “drink and drugs problem”, a senior MP yesterday warned.
Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the deputy Speaker, said politicians are turning to booze during the high-pressured late night sittings.
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And he warned that he thinks some in Westminster are also on drugs.
Sir Lindsay, who is battling to replace John Bercow as the Commons Speaker, called for more help to battle the scourge.
The Labour MP told an event in Parliament: “I do think there’s a drink problem, I think it needs to be addressed and I think support need to be given.
He added: “It’s not just drink, we can’t shy away there’s a drug problem.
“And I genuinely believe that counselling and real support should be put in there for all staff and members.”
Speaking at a hustings in Parliament, Sir Lindsay said Britain’s drugs crisis will have found its way into the corridors of power.
He said: “I don’t believe that somebody that walks in here may not be tempted to drugs.”
I do think there’s a drink problem, I think it needs to be addressed and I think support need to be given.
Sir Lindsay
Parliament’s boozy culture was thrust under the spotlight in the “sexminster” scandal, when it was revealed that alcohol-fuelled MPs had sexually harassed and bullied staff.
Parliament has 11 bars, restaurants and cafes which sell cut-priced booze.
A pint of Stella costs £3.98 and a glass of small white wine costs £3.45 – far cheaper than in London’s pubs.
Sir Lindsay’s comments came as several other MPs battling it out to be Speaker also warned Parliament has a booze problem.
Labour MP Harriet Harman, one of the favourites, warned: “We have got long hours for the members, we have got people working away from home and of course that creates a vulnerability, and therefore I think there is a drink problem.
“This is a workplace issue for not just members but staff as well.”
Labour MP Meg Hillier added: “We shouldn’t be dry, but we have a problem.”
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