MP calls for cultural change as Commons bar set to reopen after alleged spiking

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Westminster needs to “radically reshape” its culture if it is to tackle sexual misconduct, an MP has warned as Parliament’s Strangers’ Bar prepares to reopen following an allegation of spiking. Labour MP Charlotte Nichols, who has been outspoken on the need improve behaviour in Westminster, told the PA news agency she welcomed the changes as a “positive step”, but said Parliament needed to go further. She told PA: “Ultimately it’s tinkering around the edges of the actual issue, unless we radically reshape how we deal with the culture in Parliament.” Ms Nichols added that this included, “as a minimum first step”, implementing the recommendations of the Kernaghan Review of Parliament’s Independent Complaints and Grievance Service, and parties “taking much more seriously their responsibilities when it comes to dealing with allegations of sexual misconduct and vetting”. “Following a review of arrangements in Strangers’ Bar, the House of Commons Commission has endorsed a number of changes that aim to enhance existing safety measures and ensure the well-being of all customers who visit the bar.” The Metropolitan Police is continuing to investigate the alleged spiking, which is said to have occurred on the evening of January 7.