A couple managed to bypass security measures and walk straight into Downing Street, it has emerged.
Obadiah Marius, 44, and his girlfriend walked through a government building on neighbouring Whitehall without being checked, a No 10 spokesman confirmed.
The route allowed them to avoid the wrought iron gates installed to protect the prime minister from bombers.
Mr Marius was charged by police but his girlfriend was released. His lawyers say he made a "genuine mistake".
Restricted area
Visitors to Downing Street are normally subjected to security measures including checks on identity and screening with airport-style scanners.
The incident occurred on Monday afternoon when Mr Marius and his partner walked into 70 Whitehall, which houses the Cabinet Office.
The pair found themselves at the rear of the building, which backs on to Downing Street, without being challenged.
They had circumnavigated the gates installed by Margaret Thatcher to thwart terrorists during the IRA bombing campaign in the 1980s.
The pair were arrested under the Serious Organised Crime and Police Act.
Mr Marius, from east London, appeared before magistrates on Thursday.
A government spokesman confirmed the pair had been detained in Downing Street, but said they had not gained access to No 10 itself or got anywhere near the prime minister's office.
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