Key facts
- A report by the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) found that alcohol is deeply embedded in Westminster's professional life.
- MPs and staff reported alcohol being available from midday and often provided for free at work events.
- Some MPs disclosed instances of being hospitalized due to excessive alcohol consumption.
- 42% of interviewed MPs were offered an alcoholic drink at a work meeting or event weekly in the previous six months.
- 70% of respondents were unsure how to raise concerns about a colleague's drinking.
- Parliamentary investigations have frequently identified alcohol as a factor in misconduct.
Westminster's drinking culture is under scrutiny following a report by the Institute of Alcohol Studies (IAS) that describes the parliamentary environment as "Britain’s last alcohol-soaked workplace." The survey of 190 MPs and staff revealed that alcohol is deeply embedded in professional life, networking, and socialising, with drinks often provided for free from midday.
Participants described alcohol being readily available throughout the working day and at events arranged by external organisations for lobbying purposes. This provision of free alcohol, particularly during daytime hours, was seen by some as creating a "casual attitude to drinking." Concerns were raised about MPs consuming such large amounts of alcohol that they required hospitalization, with one MP noting colleagues had their stomachs pumped and returned to work the next day.
The report highlighted that parliament's long working hours, the loneliness experienced by MPs away from home, and the social pressures to advance careers contribute to drinking habits. A significant portion of interviewed MPs reported being offered alcoholic drinks on a weekly or even daily basis at work meetings or events. Furthermore, the report indicated a lack of clear procedures for addressing concerns about colleagues' drinking, with 70% of respondents unsure how to raise such issues.
Several MPs have called for a re-evaluation of Westminster's relationship with alcohol. Labour MP Cat Smith questioned why legislators should be exempt from the same standards applied to surgeons or drivers, advocating for a professional workplace approach. Beccy Cooper, another Labour MP, suggested the development of a formal workplace policy on alcohol. Katherine Severi, chief executive of the IAS, recommended limiting free alcohol to evening events to foster a more modern workplace.
Past investigations by parliament's independent complaints and grievance scheme have frequently cited alcohol as a "frequent factor" in misconduct cases, leading to intimidating behaviour. The parliamentary standards commissioner has also noted alcohol-related "behaviour problems." A parliament spokesperson stated that staff have been reminded to use alcohol responsibly, but any significant changes to alcohol provision would be a decision for members, acknowledging the estate's unique environment with public access and events.