Rochester and Strood MP Mark Reckless has apologised after getting drunk before a crucial vote.

The Tory MP got intoxicated on the House of Commons terrace on Tuesday evening.

He was among a number of MPs who took part in a six-hour drinking session, which happened in the run-up to a vote on the Finance Bill which took place at 2.07am.

The Conservatives issued a three-line whip on the debate, meaning all MPs had to stay until the end, although Mr Reckless chose not to vote because of his inebriated state.

Sounding apologetic and ashamed, Mr Reckless said: “I am terribly embarrassed."

Click here to read how Gravesham's Labour candidate in the general election is to appear in court charged with drink-driving.