A growing public campaign is targeting the drinking culture within the British Parliament, calling for a total ban on the sale and consumption of alcohol in the House of Commons. The official parliamentary petition, launched by Iwan ap Dafydd, argues that consuming alcohol on the job is entirely 'incompatible with the modern workplace' and has rapidly gained momentum, crossing the 10,000-signature threshold required to trigger an official government response. The tally currently stands at over 18,000 signatures.
Petition Demands Dry Campus Policy
The campaign contends that because Members of Parliament (MPs) are tasked with passing critical laws affecting millions of UK citizens, introducing a dry campus policy is a 'matter of national necessity'. 'The consumption of alcohol, whilst making important decisions that can have far-reaching consequences, is clearly not in the national interest,' the petition states. Supporters claim that having a bar in Parliament is a double standard, noting that in almost every other public sector profession—such as teaching, healthcare, and emergency services—drinking on duty is considered gross misconduct and grounds for immediate termination.
Government Response Defends Current Setup
In an official response issued on June 23, the Office of the Leader of the Commons stopped short of intervening directly, stating that the sale of alcohol on the Parliamentary estate is strictly a matter for individual House authorities. The House Authorities defended the current set-up, describing the estate as a 'unique environment' that acts as a workplace, a democratic hub, and a host for ceremonial events and public functions. The statement reads: 'Alcohol is served in some venues within the Estate which can be accessed by passholders, including Members, staff and others that require access. Parliament’s Behaviour Code sets clear expectations about how everyone should behave when on the Parliamentary Estate. Those who choose to drink in Parliament must do so responsibly.'
Petition Could Spark Full Debate
If the petition reaches 100,000 signatures before its deadline on November 26, it will automatically be considered for a full debate by MPs on the floor of the House, forcing lawmakers to openly discuss the future of Westminster's bars. The petition has already garnered significant public support, reflecting broader concerns about workplace conduct and the standards expected of elected officials.
