Artifacts believed to be 6,000 years old have been found during works to restore the Palace of Westminster .

Archaeologists said they have uncovered evidence of human activity on the site dating back to around 4300 BC.

The finds, revealed as part of a three-year programme of investigations commissioned by the Houses of Parliament Restoration and Renewal Delivery Authority, include more than 60 struck flint flakes and a worked tool believed to date to the late Mesolithic or early Neolithic period.

They were discovered in undisturbed sand deposits that once formed part of Thorney Island, an area thought to have supported prehistoric hunting, fishing and foraging communities.

The Lord Speaker, Lord McFall of Alcluith, said: “The history of Westminster is long, fascinating and well-doc

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