WESTMINSTER MPs have been getting a taste of the Black Country to lubricate debate in the corridors of power.

The Fownes Brewing Company's Crispin's Ommer is the latest midlands ale to be on tap in Strangers' Bar in the Palace of Westminster and MP Ian Austin was among the first customers to have a swig.

The Dudley North MP suggested the ale be served as a guest beer in the bar after getting a taste for it during a visit to the Fownes brewery at the Jolly Crispin in Clarence Street, Gornal.

Mr Austin said: “The Black County is home to the country’s best ales and Fownes’ beers were no exception when I tried them earlier this year.

“James and Tom Fownes have done a great job setting up the brewery. I want to help support local businesses like theirs so I’m delighted that MPs from across the country will now have the chance to sample our award-winning local brews.”