Police have made two arrests in connection with a mobile phone discovered hidden within the House of Commons, reportedly planted with the intention of playing sex noises during Prime Minister’s Questions. The device was found near the frontbench of the chamber during a routine security sweep in early September. Authorities believe the phone was deliberately placed to disrupt the weekly parliamentary session, specifically targeting the keynote showdown between Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch.

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police confirmed that on September 3, a mobile phone was found during a routine search. Following inquiries, officers concluded that the phone's placement was purposeful, aimed at causing disruption to parliamentary business. This led to the arrest of a man in his 30s on September 5, and another man in his 60s on September 30, both on suspicion of attempting to intentionally cause a public nuisance. Both individuals have since been released on bail, awaiting further proceedings.

In the wake of this unusual security incident, the House of Commons implemented heightened security measures. Audio and guided tours were promptly cancelled, and access to the Commons chamber was significantly reduced. As a precautionary measure, the House of Lords followed suit, also restricting access to its chamber. Police continue their investigations, regularly updating the Speaker and Clerk of the House on their progress.

The incident is being treated with utmost seriousness, as it constitutes a major breach of parliamentary security. It occurred at a time when hundreds of security staff based in Westminster were on strike, protesting over pay and conditions, including reductions in annual leave entitlements, stagnant pay, and an ethnicity pay gap. During the strike, visitors were barred from the parliamentary estate, highlighting the vulnerability of security protocols during such periods.