Voice of London

Following a ‘Sunday Times’ article, Speaker of the House, Sir Lindsay Hoyle has said he would investigate Westminster’s drug culture after traces of cocaine were detected in a number of places accessible only to people with authorisation, specifically areas where only the Home Secretary (Sajid Javid) and PM (Boris Johnson) would have access.

The report, published by Sunday Times, detailed that traces of the Class A substance where found in 11 out of 12 bathrooms tested. Tests were conducted in several locations including a lavatory close to the PM’s office, using drug detection wipes. The report, mentioning household names and young MP’s as a part of a wider problem in Westminster, dubbed “cocaine culture”.

“The accounts of drug misuse in Parliament given to the Sunday Times are deeply concerning — and I will be raising them as a priority with the Metropolitan Police this week,” stated Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, who “expect[s] to see full and effective enforcement of the law.”

An un-named source told Sunday Times, “I have seen an MP (member of Parliament) openly snorting cocaine at a party, There were journalists present and I warned them that what they were doing was extremely dangerous and they could be exposed but they seemed to get off on the power trip.” The report also said that cannabis was being “used openly” at Westminster and the smell of cannabis can be smelt on the streets close to the building.

Many have criticised the government, as Boris Johnson, dressed as a police officer, announced new plans to help combat drug use and addiction, a hallmark 10-year strategy, allocating £780m in funding for the drug treatment system in England. The strategy also includes a £300million budget with the aim to eradicate “county lines” gangs which exploit young people across the country.

Twitter users have been quick to highlight the hypocrisy and irony in the situation.

Words by Hassan Qadeer | Subbed by Raheela Ali