A woman accused of hiding in a toilet for hours to sneak around the Houses of Parliament at night has been arrested for trespassing. The incident occurred over the weekend, raising questions about security protocols at the historic Westminster complex.
How the incident unfolded
According to reports, the woman, in her 50s, was part of a visitor tour of the Houses of Parliament on Saturday. She allegedly concealed herself in a toilet marked as under maintenance and remained there for several hours after the tour ended. In the early hours of Sunday morning, she was stopped while allegedly wandering around the parliamentary estate and subsequently arrested.
Investigation into security
Parliamentary authorities have launched a review into whether night security guards were asleep on duty, as reported by the Daily Mail. The woman was reportedly found in Westminster Hall, where tours typically start and end, by Perimeter Officers who usually conduct tours outside the building. No staff members are currently facing disciplinary action.
Official statements
A spokesperson for Parliament said: '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 under way following the incident.'
A Metropolitan Police spokesperson added: '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 inquiries.'
It is understood that police do not believe there was any malicious intent behind the incident.
