Covid-19: Access to Parliament

There are changes to public access of Parliament in response to the COVID-19 outbreak and the announcements made by the Prime Minister and Health Secretary. As the country works together against the coronavirus this means Parliament will need to restrict certain aspects of everyday life to prevent the risk of exposure to the public whilst continuing to keep the democratic process working.  

The following measures  come into effect from 17 March 2020: 

• Parliament will stop all non-essential access from tomorrow to both Houses
• All Members who have underlying health conditions, or may be pregnant, or are over 70, should pay particular attention to the advice of Public Health England
• Access will be strictly restricted to passholders and those on essential Parliamentary business only
• No access to the public gallery, and side galleries will be restricted for use by Members of both Houses only
• Member tours for constituents will be stopped
• The Education Centre will be closed and education and school visits will cease from tomorrow

These further steps are necessary to allow Parliament to continue to fulfil its constitutional duties but will be kept under constant review.