Watchdog warns MPs they 'need to obtain consent before conduct of a sexual nature'

BOOZY MPs have been told by a complaints watchdog that they cannot just assume sexual consent.

- Jonathan Walker

The Independent Expert Panel issued the warning as it reported that drink played a role in half of complaints it has probed.

It follows concern about the alcohol culture in Parliament and reports last month of a spiking incident in the House of Commons Strangers' Bar, which led to a Met Police probe.

The bar closed for a month and reopened on Monday with new security measures such as CCTV.

Staff have received spiking awareness training and preventative covers for glassware are available on request.