The Commons Speaker has called “time” on the House selling alcohol in its bars and restaurants.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle made the decision after London was switched to a Tier 2 Covid-19 category.

He wanted to bring Parliament in line with the “national picture”.

When a 10.00 pm drink curfew was introduced two weeks ago the Commons was exempt.

Sir Lindsay said: “Following the Government’s decision to move London into the Tier 2 Covid-alert category, I have asked the parliamentary authorities to introduce measures to bring the House of Commons into line with the national picture.

“As MPs represent different constituencies in different tiers – with the very highest level ordering the closure of pubs – I have decided to stop the sale of alcohol across the House of Commons-end of the estate from this Saturday.

“This means it will not be possible to buy an alcoholic drink from any of our catering outlets for the foreseeable future – whether food is served or not.

“The House of Commons Commission will be meeting on Monday to consider other measures needed to protect MPs, their staff and House staff, while maintaining our Covid-secure status.”