tour of parliament buildings stormont

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History of stormont - 6 quick facts.

On 19 May 1928, the Governor of Northern Ireland the Duke of Abercorn laid the Foundation Stone for Parliament Buildings ( Front Pillars), The building was offically opened for business with a grand opening, On 16 November 1932, The Prince of Wales, Edward Windsor, opened Parliament Buildings.

• Architect Sir Arnold Thornely of Liverpool designed Parliament Buildings to be 365ft wide, representing one foot for every day of the year.
• Representing the number of counties in Northern Ireland, Parliament Buildings has six floors and there are six pillars at the entrance to the building.
• To camouflage Parliament Buildings during World War II, the building's Portland stone was painted with a mixture of cow manure and bitumen. Removing the paint after the war was a huge challenge with the mixture having stained the stonework. The paint mixture took seven years to remove and the exterior façade never regained its original white colour.
• It is one mile from the gates at the bottom of Prince of Wales Avenue to the front steps of Parliament Buildings.
• The avenue leading up to Parliament Buildings is lined with 305 red-twigged lime trees which have survived since they were first planted in the 1920s.
• Parliament Buildings is a Grade-B listed building, designed in Greek Classical tradition.

Reconciliation Garden - Hug Across The Divide

A firm favourite of mine is a walk around the grounds to the peaceful reconciliation garden. From the front gates its about halfway up on the left hand side, just off the main drive. The variety of walks around the estate make it a firm favourite for dog walkers from near and far and also sightseeing explorers to Northern Ireland. The main Parliament building is also open for tours, the internal tours run Mon-Fri twice daily 11am & 2pm, you can also pop into Stormont building and view the Great hall or coffee shop 9am-4pm. For ideas on things to do in Belfast check out the blog.

Public Tour of Parliament Buildings, Stormont Estate, Belfast

Guided Tour

Select date and time

• Wednesday July 3 12:00 PM
• Thursday July 4 12:00 PM
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Parliament Buildings

About this event

Parliament Buildings is one of the best known and most striking pieces of architecture in Northern Ireland. The architect Sir Arnold Thornely, who was knighted by King George V in recognition of his architectural work, designed the building with perfect symmetry and symbolism, such as the building being 365ft wide representing one foot for every day of the year; having six floors and six pillars at the entrance, one for each county in Northern Ireland.

Anyone who wishes to have a tour of Parliament Buildings and who requires assistance due to hearing or sight impairments can request that a sign language interpreter attends, ask for a braille tour script or for the provision of 'Hearing Helpers', however the Events Office will require advance notice and this can be done by telephone 028 905 21802 or by email [email protected].

Visitors at Parliament Buildings can use the main car park, which is free of charge.

A number of parking spaces for blue badge holders are available in the upper car park at Parliament Buildings. To arrange parking, please contact our Usher Services office before your visit:

Telephone: 028 9052 1900

Email: [email protected]

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Tourist Guide to Stormont

Stormont is one of those overlooked tourist gems in Belfast , seen more as a quick photo-op from the open-top hop-on/hop-off bus tours. But I would forever recommend hopping off that bus as there really is more to Stormont, and the surrounding grounds of Stormont Estate to make it well worthwhile. And the same goes for locals, as the grounds have always been thought to be a bit out-of-bounds with the political situation. But, since the politicians refused to return, they have been working hard to make Stormont Estate and Parliament Building into a tourist attraction. And there’s something for everyone, including adventure trails of Stormont Park, free daily tours of Parliament Buildings, and, the real gem, frugal fine dining at the Stormont Restaurant (Member’s Dining Room). Enough to make a day of it. Opening Times: 07:30AM – 20:00PM.

Stormont Park

Stormont Park has always been one of the best recreational parks in Northern Ireland, but again it was overlooked by many who thought it was exclusive to those working in the buildings. So the estate has been making Stormont Park more tourist-friendly, and the Stormont Trails make a great wee addition with treasure hunts, of sorts, where you find clues through different walking trails in the woodlands of Stormont estate (in fact it’s the 1st I’ve been impressed by any tourist initiatives in Northern Ireland). There are three themes for this: History, Woodland, and Environmental trails. And free adventure guidebooks are found as well at the main entrance, (something that would probably be vandalised in any other park in Northern Ireland in minutes). Otherwise it’s just a really nice park, and there’s a free, weekly Stormont Park run to join if interested.

Parliament Buildings

So the main building at Stormont is Parliament Buildings, a place I actually worked in for 4 years, mixing it with the big wigs. And I remember once speaking gibberish to Gerry Adams (the bearded bloke) in the lifts where he told me “Good Luck, Good Craic” when I got out at my floor. And to share a story from the opposite side, I once sat at Dawn Purvis’ table in the Stormont canteen when she said she was going to name me “Two Dinners” because I had 2 big plates of food on my tray. A bit like a scene from Goodfellas (in my head). But politics otherwise go on in the background, as the buildings are open to the public through the week, with free tours twice daily, and, when the Assembly do sit, you can watch from the “Public Gallery”. Don’t expect them to be exciting.

Stormont Tours

Parliament Buildings is open to the public through the weekdays/working days, with two daily tours which you can pretty much just turn up and join along. There will be security to pass on the way but it’s really quite casual otherwise. At the same time, visits are more of a niche local interest, and do not see further than the Great Hall unless on the tours which add in the two main halls (Assembly Chamber and the Senate Chamber) with lots of interesting tidbits (I won’t spoil them for you). But it is always best to double check to ensure visits are open, as there’s always a bit of unpredictability with the political situation at Stormont (up-to-date info on the Parliament Buildings Website). Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 09.00AM to 16.00PM . Tour Times: 11:00AM and 14:00PM

The Member’s Dining Room

The Stormont Restaurant (known officially as The Member’s Dining Room) is a proper hidden gem when it comes to restaurants in Northern Ireland, simply because it is subsidized by taxpayers money. Meaning, you’re pretty paying less than what the dining experience costs to begin with (£18.40 for 3 courses). And the restaurant was once exclusive to the Member’s of the Legislative Assembly (Northern Ireland’s Parliament) only now it has been opened to the public for a unique glimpse into the live’s of Northern Ireland’s politicians (they’re not that exciting). But the experience is still relatively prestigious, with fine dining service, and silver cloches, where at the same time it is casual in dress code now, and prices suit everyone. You can also check the menu beforehand on the Stormont website (here) and printouts are found in the downstairs hall during tours. Our full restaurant review here. Opening Times: Monday – Friday 12.00PM – 14:00PM or for Afternoon Tea between 14:00PM – 15:30PM. Reservations: 02890 521 041).

Stormont Estate

Stormont Estate is very much open to the public, at the same time, there is a fair bit of security around the grounds that may be intimidating to some. There are security gates at each entrance, for example, as well as further security scans and checks when entering Parliament Buildings. So you’ll have to empty your pockets and whatnot before entering the buildings. But these are little more than security checks, as the public are more than welcome on the estate, and are encouraged to do so these days. Otherwise onsite workers will be twiddling their thumbs. Anyway, there is plenty to explore on the Stormont Estate, and it’s a bit like a political theme park with all sorts of monuments and statues; including a statue of Edward Carson bowling down Prince of Wales Avenue, the Burial grounds of James Craig (1st Viscount Craigavon), Stormont Gardens, and Mo Mowlam’s Children’s Park for the kids.

Stormont Castle

There are other buildings on Stormont Estate, mostly just civil service blocks as well as Stormont Castle which sounds more exciting than it is. And while the Castle itself is impressive enough, it is very unlikely any tourist will be allowed near it, given it is the main offices of the big wigs of Northern Ireland politics (Northern Ireland Office/Secretary of State etc). And this is where the Executive will go for the more important committee meetings (e.g. the  Good Friday Agreement  was concluded in Stormont Castle. But I did try to take a quick look on my last visit, only to be questioned by security at the gate, and then turned back around again. However, I have been before, mostly in passing, and for drop-offs in the front car park. And really there is not much of interest anyway. It’s really just a bunch of civil service offices in a nice building.

How to Get to Stormont?

There are 3 entrances to the Stormont Estate, one at Massey Avenue, which is a handy side entrance I would use when arriving from Bangor . Then there is an entrance through the civil service buildings at Dundonald House. Otherwise the main entrance for tourists and visitors is on the Upper Newtownards Road when travelling from Belfast towards Dundonald. From here Stormont is easy to spot on the left, with a small parking area out from at the entrance gates, next to the Gatehouse, Stormont Trails, Parks and Woodlands. It is the most convenient parking area, but spaces are not always guaranteed, so the main Stormont car parks are otherwise next to the main Parliament, and directions will be given at the security gate. Stormont is also easy-ish to reach by bus ( G1 on the Belfast Glider ) where there’s a stop right next to the gatehouse parking. Address: Parliament Buildings, Stormont, Belfast, BT4 3XX

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A Comprehensive Guide to Visiting Stormont Parliament Buildings

• August 18, 2023
• Belfast Tourist Attractions

When you visit Belfast, ensure that the Stormont Parliament Buildings are high on your list.

There is much for tourists to explore, from history and architecture to food and nature.

The Parliament Buildings are not just an embodiment of Northern Ireland’s rich history, but they also offer an engaging and educational experience for tourists.

You’ll find the Stormont Parliament Buildings in the heart of East Belfast, surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and historical structures.

This grand edifice is home to the Northern Ireland Assembly and is a staple of Belfast’s architectural and historical landscape.

This guide will provide an in-depth look at the Parliament Buildings, acting as your personal tour guide for this iconic Northern Ireland landmark.

2. Location and Accessibility

Stormont Parliament Buildings are nestled within the Stormont Estate in Belfast.

They are easily accessible to the public from Mondays to Fridays, with operational hours spanning from 9:00AM to 4:00PM. However, please note that the building remains closed during public and bank holidays.

3. A Guided Tour Experience

Guided tours are available for tourists looking to gain an enriched understanding of the building’s history and significance. These tours begin at 11:00AM and 2:00PM, from Monday to Friday.

Prior booking of tickets is required to ensure a smooth and well-organised visit.

Note: If you’re unable to visit in person, you can still explore this historical marvel through a virtual tour www.virtualtourlink.com.

4. Architectural Brilliance: Parliament Buildings

The Parliament Buildings showcase the architectural prowess of Sir Arnold Thornley.

The structure spans 365ft in length, symbolising each day of the year, and features six floors and six front pillars, each representing one of the counties of Northern Ireland.

The building’s original white colour was lost during WWII when it was camouflaged with a concoction of cow dung and bitumen. Despite the paint’s removal post-war, the staining left the building with a distinctive hue.

5. Tasty Treats: The Members’ Dining Room

The Members’ Dining Room is open to tourists between 12:00pm and 3:00pm, Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays.

Here, you can savour a variety of dishes prepared by award-winning chefs using locally sourced, fresh ingredients. You might want to make a reservation, though, as it’s quite popular with both locals and tourists.

6. Tour Accessibility

The Parliament Buildings pride themselves on being accessible to all tourists. Facilities cater to wheelchair users and assistance dogs, with a Braille tour script readily available at the reception.

There’s also a Hearing Helper radio system for those who are hard of hearing. Should you require a sign language interpreter, make sure to inform the Events Office prior to your visit.

7. Historical Highlights: Stormont Estate

The Stormont Estate, home to the Parliament Buildings, also houses several other historic buildings:

Summer Houses: Two summer houses, one at the entrance of Massey Avenue and the other near Carson’s Statue, welcome visitors with their delightful charm.

Gate Lodges: The identical gate lodges at Massey Avenue and Prince of Wales Avenue add to the Estate’s architectural appeal.

Stormont Castle Cottages: Initially worker’s accommodation, these cottages now serve as offices for the Stormont Estate Management Unit.

Stormont House: Formerly the Speaker’s House, this neo-Georgian building was the first structure built as part of the Stormont Estate’s redevelopment.

Stormont Castle: This castle, closed to the public but open once a year during the European Heritage weekend, houses the Northern Ireland Executive.

8. A Peek into History

Originally, the Northern Ireland parliament convened at two venues, Belfast City Hall and the Presbyterian assembly college. The site for the new Parliament Buildings was acquired in 1922, and the current Greek Classical building was completed and opened by Edward Prince of Wales on 16th November 1932.

9. A Gift from a King

The building also houses a chandelier, a gift from King George V, that once hung in Windsor Castle. It has an interesting backstory, involving Kaiser Wilhelm II and the onset of World War I.

10. Exploring the Grounds

The Stormont Estate offers more than just buildings. It’s also home to the Reconciliation Garden, which provides a peaceful retreat for tourists.

The mile-long avenue leading up to the Parliament Buildings, lined with over 300 red-twigged lime trees, adds to the enchanting experience.

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A visit to Stormont Parlament Buildings, Belfast

Take advantage of this free tour which provides a brief history of Northern Irish politics. The tour is short, (Approx 40 min), well thought out and surprisingly funny! It’s definitely worth jumping off at stop 6 on the Belfast City Sightseeing Hop-on, Hop-off tour.

Be prepared to be swept back in time to learn about the Northern Irish involvement in WW2, the Northern Irish troubles and everything that has happened after these events right up until now.

The tours run from Monday to Friday 11:00am – 2:00pm, lasting 45 minutes. If you don’t have City Sightseeing Hop-on / Hop-off ticket, you will need to walk from the grounds entrance to reach the Parlament Building (approx 1 mile). An expected security check is carried out before entering the building after which you will receive a pass to join on one of the tours.

Tour guides are both witty and extremely knowledgeable. With a bit of Northern Irish humour thrown in the tour is fast-paced & captivating.

During the tour, you will get the chance to visit the Northern Ireland Assembly Room, where many historical agreements have been negotiated by some of Northern Ireland’s most well- known Politicians and Public Figures.

All in all, an excellent tour and well worth your time.

Interesting Facts

• On 19 May 1928, the Governor of Northern Ireland the Duke of Abercorn laid the Foundation Stone for Parliament Buildings.
• On 16 November 1932, The Prince of Wales, Edward Windsor, opened Parliament Buildings. 80 years later, on 17 November 2012, a special open day will mark the historic occasion.
• Architect Sir Arnold Thornely of Liverpool designed Parliament Buildings to be 365ft wide, representing one foot for every day of the year.
• Parliament Buildings is a Grade-B listed building, designed in Greek Classical tradition.
• Standing at 92 feet high, Parliament Buildings is made from English Portland stone and is mounted on a granite base quarried from the Mourne Mountains in County Down.
• The grounds of Stormont Estate (224 acres at the time of purchase) cost approximately £20,000. The cost of constructing Parliament Buildings, which was completed in 1932, came close to £1.7 million.Great Hall
• Representing the number of counties in Northern Ireland, Parliament Buildings has six floors and there are six pillars at the entrance to the building.
• Architect Arnold Thornley received a knighthood from George V in recognition of his architectural work on Parliament Buildings.
• The blue, red and gold painted ceiling of the Great Hall remains untouched since it was first painted in 1932, thanks to a secret waxing process formulated by Heaton, Tabb & Co. of London.
• The Great Hall measures 26.85m x 14.31m and is the most richly-decorated part of Parliament Buildings.
• Original plans for Parliament Buildings actually involved three separate buildings to include law courts, a parliamentary building, and an administrative block. However, due to rising costs early in the project, the original plans were changed and only one building was constructed. This explains why it is called 'Parliament Buildings' (plural) even though it is a single standalone building. The intended sites for the other two buildings are clearly visible today, these are the lower terraces in front, and to either side of Parliament Buildings. Parliament Buildings During WWII
• To camouflage Parliament Buildings during World War II, the building's Portland stone was painted with a mixture of cow manure and bitumen. Removing the paint after the war was a huge challenge with the mixture having stained the stonework. The paint mixture took seven years to remove and the exterior façade never regained its original white colour.
• The avenue leading up to Parliament Buildings is lined with 305 red-twigged lime trees which have survived since they were first planted in the 1920s.
• It is one mile from the gates at the bottom of Prince of Wales Avenue to the front steps of Parliament Buildings.
• There are almost 2000 meters of corridors across the six floors in Parliament Buildings.

*Fact information courtesy of www.niassembly.gov.uk

Opening Hours

• Tours run from Monday to Friday - 11:00am – 2:00pm, lasting 45 minutes.

We can be contacted by email at [email protected] or through our tour office on +44 (0)28 90 321321 . We look forward to seeing you soon!

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Stormont buildings.

Stormont , home to the Northern Ireland Assembly, is open to the public between 9am and 4pm Monday to Friday. See first-hand the building and beautiful surroundings of the Stormont Estate. Free tours last 30–45 minutes and allow guests to view the magnificent surroundings of the Great Hall and the historic Senate Chamber. Learn about Parliament Buildings, past and present, as well as about the architecture of the building and Stormont Estate.

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Parliament Buildings, Stormont Estate, Belfast, County Down BT4 3ST

Accessibility

A number of parking spaces for blue badge holders are available in the upper car park at Parliament Buildings. To arrange parking, please contact o Usher Services office before your visit: Telephone: 028 9052 1900 Email: [email protected] 

Wheelchair access is via the ramps at the front entrance to Parliament Buildings, and ramps at the east and west doors. The Public Gallery of the Assembly Chamber has a viewing gallery with space for up to three wheelchair users. There are also spaces for wheelchairs in the gallery areas of Committee rooms. Wheelchairs are available at the east and west receptions.

There is a link to a video on the website showing how to get to Parliament Buildings, what the security check involves and what to expect during your visit. This video was created for visitors on the autism spectrum, but others wishing to plan their visit may find it useful, too.

Free tours of Parliament Buildings are available throughout the year. Information about our tours, including times, is available here . 

Tours generally last about 45 minutes, and all tours are fully accessible for wheelchair users and people with assistance dogs. A Braille tour script is available at reception.

A Hearing Helper radio system is available for people who are hard of hearing or large groups, and a signed tour in British and Irish sign language is also available. Visitors taking the tour can also request a sign language interpreter. The Events Office will need to know about this before your visit, so please contact staff by telephone on 028 905 21802 or email [email protected]

The Assembly welcomes assistance dogs in the Building. Water bowls are available from the reception desk.

Brief description

This building, opened in 1932, houses the Northern Ireland Assembly, which is the local parliament.  Originally the seat of government when NI was a         one-party Unionist state, the Assembly now represents both communities of this historically divided society, and government is based on the principle of     cross-community power-sharing.  Government is carried out by the Northern Ireland Executive, based at the nearby Stormont Castle.

[email protected]

+44 (0) 28 9052 1802

http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/

Stormont is approximately 3.5 miles/5.6km from Belfast city centre, situated on the left hand side of the road travelling out of Belfast - look out for the matching pair of gate lodges.

Opening Times

Monday - Friday 9am - 4pm

By bus - take the Glider bus from the Albert Clock at Queen's Square, number G3, journey time 18 minutes.  By car, head east from Belfast city centre along the A20 Newtownards Road and then the A20 Upper Newtownards Road.  Guided bus tours such as City Sightseeing Tours stop here, and include a brief history of the site,

Nearest Venues

Stormont House, Belfast, County Down

349 metres*

Parliament Buildings, Belfast

510 metres*

Stormont Estate, Belfast (Open park hours)

1,009 metres*

Stormont Hotel, Belfast, County Down

1,258 metres*

Stormont Presbyterian Church, Belfast, County Down

1,423 metres*

Belfast Campbell College, Belfast, County Down BT4 2ND

1,463 metres*

*Distances are calculated in a straight line from the current venue, please allow extra time/distance based on available paths or roads.

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Planning your visit

Opening hours.

Parliament Buildings is usually open to the public between 9.00am and 4.00pm Monday to Friday.

Travelling by car

If travelling by car, visitors are required to pass through a security facility at all entrances to the Estate. All visitors to Parliament Buildings are required to pass through a search facility.

Find out more about the Assembly Visitor management System...

Parliament Buildings is situated in Stormont Estate which is on the east side of Belfast, on the Upper Newtownards Road (A20). When travelling out of Belfast along the Upper Newtownards Road, the large entrance to the Estate can be seen on the left hand side of the road, approximately 5 miles from the city centre.

Our address is:

Northern Ireland Assembly Parliament Buildings Ballymiscaw Stormont Belfast BT4 3XX

GPS: +54°36'13.02", -5°49'50.40"

Getting here by Public Transport

There is a regular Metro bus service (3g, 3h and 7h) to and from Stormont Estate. There is also an Ulsterbus service from Bangor (4).

• Metro service 3g
• Metro service 3h
• Metro service 7h
• Ulsterbus service 4

Please check the  Translink website  for up-to-date timetables and information.

Members of the public are welcome to visit the Great Hall in Parliament Buildings between 9.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday. 

You are welcome to visit the Great Hall in Parliament Buildings between 9.00am and 4.00pm, Monday to Friday. You can usually watch full meetings of the Assembly (plenary sessions) from the Public Gallery on Mondays from 12 noon and on Tuesdays from 10.30am.

When you arrive you will be asked to go through a security facility. 

If you have any special access requirements please call us in advance on +44 (0) 28 9052 1586.

Special Requirements

Any Visitor who requires assistance should make themselves known at the external Search Facility where arrangements will be made to ensure that they gain access to the building.

Parliament Buildings has disabled parking in the Upper East Carparks by prior arrangement. Call (028) 90 521 900.

Wheelchair users can access the building at the front door and induction loops for people with hearing difficulties are installed in public areas.

Personal Data

The Assembly collects data on visitors to Parliament Buildings. Please read our policy  NI Assembly Visitor Management System  for further information.

Guests can access Stormont Estate by car with parking facilities in the Visitors Car Park to the left-hand side of Parliament Buildings (right-hand side on approach) or along the Prince of Wales Avenue.

The Visitors Car Park also contains two electric charging points.  Learn how to make use of the electric charging points...

Disabled Parking

Upper Car Park access can be arranged if in line with Security Policy. This should be arranged in advance, but Blue Badge holders can receive upper access permitting there are parking spaces available.

Disabled Access

Autism friendly.

A page on the Assembly website providing information to visitors on the Autistic spectrum has been developed and includes useful contacts, links, the access video, guidance and information on sensory issues that may be encountered. 

• Visit the autism friendly information webpage  

Easy Read Guide

You can also read our  Easy Read guide on How to Visit Parliament Buildings .

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Hotels near Parliament Buildings Stormont

Explore parliament buildings when staying at the europa hotel in belfast.

The Parliament Buildings are open to the public between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday. Visitors can take a free tour of the building and explore the beautiful surroundings of the Stormont Estate.

The architect Sir Arnold Thornely, who was knighted by King George V in recognition of his architectural work, designed the building with perfect symmetry and symbolism, such as the building being 365ft wide representing one foot for every day of the year and having six floors and six pillars at the entrance, one for each county in Northern Ireland.

Tours last from 45 minutes to one hour and allow visitors to view the magnificent surroundings of the Great Hall, see the historic Senate Chamber and sit in the MLAs’ seats in the Assembly Chamber. The tour provides information on Parliament Buildings, past and present, as well as about the architecture of the building and Stormont Estate.

While the Assembly is in session, free public tours are available Monday – Friday at 11am and 2pm. During the summer months of July and August, free tours starting on the hour are available between 11am and 3pm.

Check the website for tour times.

There is also a coffee and gift shop open to the public Monday – Friday, 9am – 4pm, located on the ground floor beside the Great Hall. Serving a variety of home baked goods, tea and coffee and selling a range of souvenirs, food and drink and crafts from local makers.

There is no charge for visiting the Parliament Buildings. When you arrive you will be asked to go through a security check.

For further information please contact  +44 (0)28 9052 1802  or visit the Parliament Buildings website  here .

For reservations at the Europa Hotel please click on the links below, or contact our reservations team on   +44 (0) 28 9027 1066 .

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Rooms from £130 per night.

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Election latest: 'Where is the cabinet?': Minister put on spot in ninth TV interview - as leaders prepare for debate

Mel Stride has been challenged on Sky News over why other cabinet ministers have not been doing interviews, as the betting scandal continues to engulf the campaign. Meanwhile, Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer are preparing to face off in the final head-to-head debate of the campaign.

Wednesday 26 June 2024 08:40, UK

• General Election 2024

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Betting scandal

• Betting scandal continues to engulf Tories - as leaders prepare for final debate
• Labour candidate suspended after betting against himself
• Sam Coates: Scale of gambling scandal for Tories is different magnitude to Labour's issue
• Live reporting by Ben Bloch
• Where is the cabinet? Stride speaks to Sky News nine times since start of May
• 'You are the problem': Sunak attacks David Tennant

Election essentials

• Manifesto pledges:  Alliance | Conservatives | DUP | Greens | Labour | Lib Dems | Plaid | Reform | SNP | Sinn Fein | Workers
• Trackers:  Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage:  Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts:  Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more:  Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Guide to election lingo | How to watch election on Sky News

Rishi Sunak has this morning defended his business secretary, Kemi Badenoch, after actor David Tennant attacked her at an awards ceremony yesterday.

The Doctor Who star attacked her position on trans and women's rights while accepting an award for being a celebrity ally at the British LGBT Awards.

He said: "If I'm honest, I'm a little depressed by the fact that acknowledging that everyone has the right to be who they want to be and live their life how they want to live it as long as they're not hurting anyone else should merit any kind of special award or special mention, because it's common sense, isn't it?

"It is human decency. We shouldn't live in a world where that is worth remarking on. However, until we wake up and Kemi Badenoch doesn't exist any more – I don't wish ill of her, I just wish her to shut up – whilst we do live in this world, I am honoured to receive this."

Ms Badenoch defended herself on social media, labelling Mr Tennant a "rich, lefty, white male celebrity", adding: "I will not shut up. I will not be silenced by men who prioritise applause from Stonewall over the safety of women and girls."

The prime minister has now weighed into the row in defence of his business secretary as he attempts to change the narrative from the gambling scandal engulfing his party.

Mr Sunak wrote on X: "Freedom of speech is the most powerful feature of our democracy.

"If you're calling for women to shut up and wishing they didn’t exist, you are the problem."

Sky News' deputy political editor Sam Coates and Politico's Jack Blanchard are in your podcast feeds with their guide to the election day ahead.

This is day 35 of the campaign. Jack and Sam discuss the final head-to-head debate - how have the two leaders fared through the campaign?

Also on the agenda - gamblegate, the story that won't die, and Reform going big on net zero - parliament's next big battle.

👉 Tap here to follow Politics at Jack and Sam's wherever you get your podcasts 👈

Since the start of May, Work and Pensions Secretary Mel Stride has been on the morning media round a whopping nine times.

As much as we at Sky News enjoy hearing from Mr Stride, there are 22 cabinet ministers - and overall, there are 125 people holding a government job.

To that end, we asked where the rest of the cabinet is, and why they aren't out in public hailing the work of the government under Rishi Sunak.

Mr Stride replied: "Well, I think there's probably a good reason why I'm sent, which is that this election is about tax and also how you're going to fund tax cuts, which is predominantly, in our case, through controlling the welfare budget.

"So I'm the secretary of state for work and pensions, and that includes the welfare budget, which funds about two thirds of the tax cuts that we're bringing in, so I'm often speaking about that."

The chancellor is responsible for the budget, and therefore taxation, but he has been speaking in public far less frequently as he fights to keep his seat in parliament.

But Mr Stride noted that he served as the financial secretary to the Treasury for two years and has a "particular interest and expertise" in that area.

The prime minister yesterday withdrew support from two Tory candidates at the general election amid allegations they placed bets on the date of the election using insider knowledge (they both deny wrongdoing).

Asked if it was a relief action was finally taken, work and pensions secretary Mel Stride said Rishi Sunak has "done exactly the right thing, which is to have conducted internal inquiries within the party to establish enough information to take a decision".

He praised the PM for having "promptly" decided to withdraw support, and said the "process has worked its way through".

Sky's Wilfred Frost noted that the Gambling Commission's investigation was first revealed two weeks ago, and the PM came under huge pressure to take action, and could have acted much sooner.

But Mr Stride said we do not know exactly what process was undertaken internally in the party to reach the decision yesterday to suspend the two candidates.

More broadly, the cabinet minister said it is "disappointing" that we are discussing the gambling scandal with the election just over a week away - although he did accept that this matters "a great deal", and said gambling and "insider dealing" is "utterly wrong and should be condemned in the strongest terms".

But he went on: "There is also, though, a decision that we're going to be taking in a matter of days now about the future governance of our country.

"And we need to be, I think, focusing on a Conservative Party that has got the economy under control, is going to be reducing people's taxes, taking that pressure off them - and a Labour Party that has not explained enough at the moment about the taxing increases we know it's going to be bringing in."

More broadly, Mr Stride said there is a "broader debate to be had about gambling, around politics and politicians' involvement in that, and to try and establish where the line should be drawn".

We've just been speaking with the work and pensions secretary, Mel Stride, and we started by asking about the news that more than 500 Scottish inmates, serving short-term sentences, are due to be released early to ease prison overcrowding (see previous post).

This is also a major issue in England, and Mr Stride insisted that "building more prisons in the longer-term".

He conceded there is "pressure on prison spaces", with around 1,500 remaining at present.

But he said those being released early are not a "danger to society", and the prison governor will have the final say on who is let out early.

We pushed Mr Stride on why the UK Ministry of Justice, that oversees prisons in England and Wales, is not being transparent about the number of people being released early.

He could not say, pointing out that he is the work and pensions secretary, not the justice secretary.

By Connor Gillies , Scotland correspondent

Victims are being taunted by criminals who are being released early from Scotland's prisons today under emergency plans to tackle overcrowding, Sky News has been told.

Jails across the UK are in crisis with governors in England and Wales warning they could run out of space within days.

From this morning, the SNP government in Edinburgh is allowing more than 500 Scottish inmates, serving short-term sentences, out early in a bid to tackle the issue.

Prisoners inside for under four years who have 180 days or less left to serve are being released in waves over the coming weeks across all Scottish prisons.

Sex offenders and domestic abusers are among those exempt, with governors handed a veto.

The charity Victim Support Scotland told Sky News the system will lead to reoffending.

The prison population in Scotland is almost 8,300, more than exceeding the target operating capacity of 8,007.

The Scottish Prison Service insists safety is a priority.

Read more here:

After days of furore directed at Rishi Sunak for the election betting scandal, now a Labour candidate is under investigation by the Gambling Commission for his own betting activity - and is immediately suspended.

Is this an equaliser in one of the grubbiest electoral sagas of recent elections? Quite possibly not.

There is no doubting the utter dismay in Labour HQ at the revelation that they too have a candidate caught up in the betting scandal.

It lends itself to the easy narrative that there's a plague on all politicians' houses - everyone as bad as each other.

However, if the facts are as presented, the scale of the challenge for the Tories is of a different order of magnitude to that now facing Labour.

Read Sam's full analysis here:

By Jennifer Scott , political reporter

A Labour candidate has been suspended by the party after betting against himself - with the Gambling Commission launching an investigation into him.

Kevin Craig is running to become the MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich - a safe Conservative seat previously held by ex-Tory Dan Poulter, who defected to Labour ahead of the election and is not standing again.

Sky News' chief political correspondent Jon Craig understands the bet was relating to the outcome of the vote in his constituency - and the candidate had actually been betting he would lose the contest.

Labour confirmed Kevin Craig had been suspended by the party - though at this late stage, he will still appear on the ballot paper with "Labour" next to his name.

It is also understood that the party will return £100,000 in donations to the businessman that he has made since Sir Keir Starmer took charge of Labour.

The gambling scandal continues to grow as we count down to polling day on 4 July.

Up to 15 Conservative candidates and officials are being scrutinised by the gambling watchdog, BBC Newsnight is reporting.

The Conservative Party yesterday withdrew its support for two candidates who are being investigated over betting on the timing of the general election.

In addition to those two candidates, two officials, and an officer from Rishi Sunak's close protection team are being investigated by the Gambling Commission.

It also emerged yesterday that Russell George, a Conservative member of the Senedd, faces a probe, and has stepped back from the Welsh shadow cabinet as that is conducted.

And the Scotland secretary, Alister Jack, is also under fire after it was reported he claimed to have won more than £2,000 betting on the date of the election.

However, he insists that he did not place any bets in May - the period under investigation by the Gambling Commission - and says he has not been contacted about a probe.

The series of further revelations comes hours before Rishi Sunak faces Sir Keir Starmer in the final head-to-head debate of the campaign.

Good morning!

Welcome back to the Politics Hub on this Wednesday, 26 June.

There are just eight days to go  until polls open and you, the voters, get your say after weeks of campaigning.

Until then, all parties will be doing their best to win your vote - here's what's coming up today:

• Rishi Sunak and Sir Keir Starmer will go head-to-head in the final leaders' debate of this general election campaign - and it'll be one of the PM's final opportunities to really shift the polls - something that has eluded him so far;
• But he is likely to face tough questions about the betting scandal that continues to engulf his party, with it emerging overnight that a fifth Tory is under investigation by the gambling watchdog over an alleged bet on the election timing;
• It's also slightly awkward for the Labour leader, with him having had to suspend one of his own candidates last night for betting against himself to win in the constituency he was contesting;
• Sir Keir is expected to be out and about this morning as the party promotes its pledge to "end the 8am scramble" and make it easier to get GP appointments;
• Mr Sunak will spend much of the day preparing for the debate - but Home Secretary James Cleverly will be out promoting the party's pledge to implement its planned tax cuts in their very first budget after the election, should they win;
• In Scotland, the Alba party will be launching its manifesto later this morning as it tries to win support from Scottish voters supportive of independence;
• SNP leader John Swinney will be out campaigning today, and we are expecting to hear from him this afternoon;
• In Northern Ireland, both the  Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) and the  Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) will be launching their manifestos;
• And Sir Ed Davey will hit the campaign trail to promote the Lib Dems' plan to give every cancer patient a dedicated specialist nurse supporting them throughout their treatment.

We'll be discussing all of that and more with:

• Mel Stride , work and pensions secretary, at 7.15am ;
• Liz Kendall , shadow work and pensions secretary, at 8.20am .

Follow along for the very latest from the general election campaign.

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