A woman was discovered wandering through the Houses of Parliament in the early hours of Sunday after reportedly locking herself in a toilet cubicle at the end of a guided tour. The visitor, who did not emerge from her hiding place until around 2am, then began to roam the premises before being found in Westminster Hall by security officers, who subsequently alerted the police.
Security Breach Investigation
Parliamentary officials have launched an investigation into the security lapse, while the Metropolitan Police are also conducting their own inquiry. A spokesperson for the Met stated: 'In the early hours of Sunday, 7 June, a woman in her 50s was arrested on suspicion of trespassing, breaching a section of the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005, after remaining in the Palace of Westminster for several hours following the conclusion of an organised tour. She was released on bail pending further enquiries.'
Parliament's Response
A Parliamentary spokesperson commented: 'A member of the public was arrested for trespassing on the Parliamentary Estate on Sunday 7 June. The incident is now being dealt with by the Metropolitan Police. The safety and security of all those who work and visit in Parliament is our top priority. Whilst we cannot comment on our security processes or measures, a review is underway following the incident.'
The incident has raised concerns about security protocols at the iconic building, which houses the UK's legislative bodies. The woman's ability to remain undetected for several hours after the tour ended has prompted a thorough review of procedures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
