POLICE used CS spray to break up a fight in the Houses of Parliament tonight, sources said.

It is understood that guests of an official passholder began scuffling shortly after 9.15pm.

Police officers were unable to stop them fighting and one used their CS spray. According to reports, three people were arrested.

It is understood that the incident happened in the corridor behind the Speakers Chair, just yards from the Commons Chamber where MPs were debating Africa.

The Conservative Party refused to comment on reports that the people arrested in the incident had attended a reception hosted by the party's chairman Eric Pickles which was taking place in the Shadow Cabinet Room in the Palace of Westminster.