MEPs denied Parliamentary passes

BNP leader Nick Griffin will not be given a UK Parliamentary pass

Euro MPs will no longer be entitled to Westminster Parliamentary passes after a vote in the House of Commons.

The decision means BNP MEPs Nick Griffin and Andrew Brons will not get access to Commons facilities.

Commons leader Harriet Harman said the decision was made after a review of the rules relating to passes, and concern about pressure facilities.

Ms Harman says it applies to all parties. Thirty MPs signed a motion signed a motion backing the move.

Labour backbencher John Mann, who tabled the Early Day Motion, said he was "delighted" by the result of the vote: "This stops the BNP parading round here as if they're legitimate politicians."

British MEPs have had automatic access to the Westminster Parliament since 1989. This has now been taken away and they will in future have to apply for permission or be escorted by an MP.

The motion making this change has been on the Commons order paper since October 12 - but has been repeatedly opposed but on Tuesday evening it was resolved without opposition.

The BNP have yet to respond.