Big Ben falls silent for repairs

Big Ben falls silent for repairs

Big Ben has fallen silent for major repair work expected to last until 2021.

The midday bongs were the last regular chimes from the famous bell until the repairs to its tower are complete.

It will still be used for special occasions, including New Year's Eve and Remembrance Sunday.

There were cheers and applause from a crowd of tourists and onlookers on the green opposite as the final chime rang out.

The decision to switch it off to protect workers' hearing has sparked a debate about the length of time it will be silent, with MPs not being told it would be four years, the longest period in its history.
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