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ERMINE VERMIN

Moths feared to have been munching on ancient hangings in the House of Lords

MOTHS are feared to have been munching on ancient hangings in the House of Lords, we can reveal.

The flying pests are among the vermin spotted in and around parliament.

Moths are feared to have been munching on ancient hangings in the House of Lords, we can reveal
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Moths are feared to have been munching on ancient hangings in the House of Lords, we can revealCredit: Alamy
The flying pests are among the vermin spotted in and around parliament
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The flying pests are among the vermin spotted in and around parliamentCredit: Getty Images - Getty

Authorities say the insects have been targeting the richly-decorated “animal-based” fabrics hung in the grand second chamber.

Officials spent £187,103.49 tackling various infestations in the ancient Westminster buildings last year.

Freedom of Information requests show cash also went on dealing with nesting pigeons, and mice and rats scurrying along the corridors of power.

Official documents also reveal the refurbishment of the building “may increase pest activity, especially rats emerging from drains”.

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They also warn that mice may be heading into parliament from Westminster tube station which sits below modern offices linked to the buildings.

A UK Parliament spokesman said: “Parliament is a safe place to work and eat, with robust food safety and hygiene processes in place.

"We’re committed to a humane and ethical pest control programme.”

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