Photo: EPA
Big Ben has fallen silent for major repair work expected to last until 2021, the BBC reports.
The midday bongs were the last regular chimes from the famous bell until the repairs to its surrounding tower are complete.
It will still be used for special occasions including New Year’s Eve and Remembrance Sunday.
The decision to switch it off to protect workers’ hearing has sparked a lively debate about the timescale.
Prime Minister Theresa May has said “it can’t be right” that the famous bongs will not be heard again until 2021 and has asked for the proposals to be reviewed.
The House of Commons has said it will look again at the length of time Big Ben will be silenced after “concerns” were raised.
The 13.7 tonne Great Bell has sounded on the hour for 157 years and last fell silent in 2007. The Great Clock it forms part of is to be dismantled and repaired.
