Save the Red Lion

If Tory Bear is drinking post work there is an 85% to 86% chance it will be in The Red Lion next to Parliament. The scene of much debuchary, plotting, pranks, tears, joy and Strongbow, it was great sadness that TB learnt, via the resurreted

LondonSpin

, that the pub is to be gutted. "Kash", the editor drinks reguarly with the manager so has the inside knowledge:

"The proposals, which include scaffolding, replacement carpets, a new sign and wall stripping, could mean temporary closure whilst the work takes place. The new-look Red Lion is said to include a HOT FOOD COUNTER in the main bar, a jazzed up cellar bar and a shiny new front design to wow punters in Westminster."

Firstly there is the closure to deal with, The Westminister Arms is full of socialists and for some reason TB's lobby pass still hasn't arrived, so that rules out the cheap beers in the Palace. But secondly, and more importantly, what is wrong with the Red Lion now? It's about the last decent pub centrally that isn't trying to be anything other than a watering hole and frankly its dingyness adds to its charm. It's rammed almost every night and no one one wants to rest their pints on a jacket potato stall. Just leave it alone! If it ain't broke...