MP complains about noise from Brexit protesters outside parliament

By George Ryan, Press Association Parliamentary Reporter

An MP has complained about the noise from Brexit protesters outside Parliament, which he says is distracting MPs and the police.

Tory MP Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East) said he was concerned the "incessant loud noise" was interrupting people going about their jobs.

He added: "Not only does it cause distraction, particularly in Westminster Hall, but much more importantly it has a huge effect on the police who are guarding the gates and have to be on the alert, as we know only too well, against attack.

"There are by-laws about this. I don't care which side of the EU argument the shouters are on, probably both sides, but it needs to be stopped."

Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom said she regularly meets with the authorities at the Palace of Westminster to discuss "some of the challenges" faced with going about their work.

She added: "I have raised the issue of the demonstration going on outside, but not specifically the noise, but since he makes that point I will absolutely undertake to raise that issue the next time I speak to the director general."