Out of House, British MPs may have to follow Sharia law

MPs and peers were told this week that they are likely to have to move out of the Palace of Westminster entirely for at least six years

British legislators may have to comply with the Sharia law including an alcohol ban when they move out of the Westminster Palace which is set to undergo much-needed repairs as the new complex they will shift into is governed by the Islamic law.

The UK parliamentary committee searching for a new temporary home for the House of Commons away from the Palace of Westminster has identified Richmond House, home to the UK’s department of health, as a favoured option. But the building in the Whitehall political hub of London was transferred to finance an Islamic bond scheme of “Sukuk” two years ago, and a condition of its lease is that it cannot be used for purposes not sanctioned by Sharia law.

An official told the Times newspaper that under terms of the deal agreed with the UK treasury, the sale of alcohol is among activities explicitly forbidden.

“It is true. If MPs want to use Richmond House they’d better give up any hopes it will include a bar,” he said.

MPs and peers were told this week that they are likely to have to move out of the Palace of Westminster entirely for at least six years to allow for a four-billion pounds overhaul of the crumbling neo-Gothic pile.

According to the newspaper, parliamentarians will have to leave behind at least 10 licensed bars and restaurants, each well-stocked with competitively priced drinks.

The Richmond House complex has been narrowed down as a favoured options as it can easily be taken within a security cordon.