Members of Parliament and their staff have reported frequent exposure to alcohol during work-related events, including breakfast meetings where wine was commonly offered, according to a recent study by the Institute of Alcohol Studies. The research, which surveyed 191 MPs and their staff over the course of a year, found that 42% of MPs and 29% of staff said they were offered alcoholic drinks at least once a week during official functions.

Participants in the study described situations where alcoholic beverages were readily available, and non-alcoholic options were limited to the extent that some struggled to find soft drinks without leaving the room. These findings have raised concerns about the appropriateness of alcohol consumption in parliamentary settings and prompted calls for a formal policy regulating alcohol use within the UK Parliament.

The report also highlighted the impact of alcohol on workplace relations, with one in 10 respondents disclosing that they had been negatively affected by a colleague’s drinking. The effect on professional conduct and decision-making has been underscored by some MPs’ reflections on the issue. One MP questioned the logic of legislating while under the influence, stating that if they would not operate heavy machinery or drive after drinking, the same caution should apply to their duties in Parliament.

Dr Beccy Cooper, MP for Worthing West, contributed a foreword to the report, emphasizing that the findings should serve as a “wake-up call” for the parliamentary community. She highlighted the need for clear guidelines to ensure a safe and professional environment, free from the potentially harmful effects of workplace drinking.

As the debate over alcohol consumption within political institutions continues, the study has brought renewed attention to the cultural norms around drinking in Parliament and the potential consequences for both individual wellbeing and public trust. There have been suggestions that formal restrictions or policies could help address the concerns raised and create a more transparent and responsible approach to alcohol at parliamentary events.