Londoners may notice an increased emergency services presence around the Houses of Parliament this weekend, but officials confirm it is only for a film production, not a real incident. Actors dressed as armed police and simulated emergencies will be staged as part of filming for a new Netflix series.
Filming Schedule and Locations
Production company Bad Wolf will be filming at locations around the parliamentary estate and on the River Thames on Saturday, August 22, and Sunday, August 23. The filming is understood to be for a new Netflix series called The Lords' Day, about a siege inside the famous building. The series is adapted from Michael Dobbs's novel and takes place during the State Opening of Parliament.
Specialist vehicles will be used in the area as part of the production, and signs will be displayed to warn that filming is taking place, to avoid panic among the public.
Official Statement from Parliament
A UK Parliament spokesperson said: “A licensed film production is taking place on and around parts of the parliamentary estate over the weekend. Members of the public may see actors portraying armed police officers, specialist vehicles and simulated incidents as part of the filming. These activities are part of a controlled and authorised production, and there is no incident or emergency on the parliamentary estate.”
The spokesperson's remarks aim to reassure residents and visitors that the staged scenes are not real emergencies.
Previous Filming at Parliament
Filming has previously taken place inside the Houses of Parliament for productions including Darkest Hour, Suffragette, and Anatomy Of A Scandal. This weekend's production continues the tradition of using the historic location as a backdrop for major film and television projects.
The public is advised to follow the displayed signs and remain aware that the activities are part of the authorised production.
