Police have arrested two men in connection with a mobile phone hidden in the House of Commons that was reportedly planted to play sex noises during Prime Minister's Questions. The device was discovered near the frontbench during a routine security sweep of the chamber in September.
The Metropolitan Police believe the phone was deliberately placed to disrupt proceedings. A spokesperson said the phone was found on 3 September, and investigations suggested it was intended to cause a public nuisance. A man in his 30s was arrested on 5 September, and another in his 60s on 30 September. Both have been bailed pending further inquiries.
The incident prompted heightened security measures in the Commons, including the cancellation of audio and guided tours, and reduced access to the chamber. The House of Lords also restricted access as a precaution. The police are keeping the Speaker and Clerk of the House updated on the investigation.
The discovery occurred while hundreds of Westminster security staff were on strike over pay and conditions, leading to a ban on visitors to the parliamentary estate. The Public and Commercial Services Union cited reduced annual leave, stagnant pay, and an ethnicity pay gap as reasons for the strike.
