MPs backtrack on plans to silence Big Ben chimes for FOUR YEARS amid outcry over ‘bonkers’ refurbishment rules

MPs have backtracked on plans to silence Big Ben chimes for FOUR YEARS amid outcry over the "bonkers" refurbishment.

Politicians have claimed they did not know the bell would be silenced for years before they agreed to the work - which is due to begin on Monday.

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Complex restoration work is needed on the 96-metre tall Elizabeth Tower to ensure the safety of those working there.

But politicians have now insisted they had no idea the bell would fall silent for so long, the reports.

Tory MP Nicholas Soames last night said: "Tell those poor little darlings to put headphones on."

And Brexit secretary David Davis said stopping the chimes was "mad" before urging authorities to "just get on with it".

Three Parliamentary committees reportedly agreed on the work before the House of Commons gave it the seal of approval.

Lib Dem MP Tom Brake, the spokesman for the Commons Committee, has now said he will ask for the plans to be reviewed.

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He said: "Following representations that have been made, I will ask the commission whether it will look again at whether more extended bell-ringing is an option that is both mechanically and financially viable."

The tower is currently half-covered in scaffolding after the project started earlier this year, with repairs soon to start on the Ayrton Light - which shines to show that Parliament is sitting.

Then work will start on the custom built Victorian clockwork mechanism, which relies on gravity to trigger the renowned bongs, which has struck every hour to the note of E with almost unbroken service for the past 157 years.

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But The Houses of Parliament have confirmed its specialist clock makers will ensure it can still sound for important national events such as New Year’s Eve and Remembrance Sunday.

Steve Jaggs, Keeper of the Great Clock, said: “Big Ben falling silent is a significant milestone in this crucial conservation project.

“As Keeper of the Great Clock I have the great honour of ensuring this beautiful piece of Victorian engineering is in top condition on a daily basis.

“This essential programme of works will safeguard the clock on a long term basis, as well as protecting and preserving its home – the Elizabeth Tower.

“Members of the public are welcome to mark this important moment by gathering in Parliament Square to hear Big Ben’s final bongs until they return in 2021.”