Substance abuse | Cocaine discovery in Parliament puts spotlight on HR drugs policies

Reports that traces of cocaine have been found in nearly a dozen locations inside the Houses of Parliament has put the issue of workplace drug abuse, and the policies surrounding it, firmly back in the spotlight.

A Sunday Times investigation has found evidence of cocaine in 11 out of 12 lavatory locations tested in the building, it was reported this week.

The publication also reported that commons officials had received reports last month that cannabis could be smelt in an open space – often used by staff for cigarette breaks.

House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has promised to raise the allegations of drug use in Parliament with the Metropolitan Police this week. The Speaker’s comments were made in Parliament, as reported by the BBC, and followed. Describing the discovery as "deeply concerning", Hoyle later told the BBC that those who "flout the law" should face punishment.