Terrorist threat in UK seen as unprecedented

THE TERRORIST threat against the United Kingdom is seen as unprecedented.

In addition to five attacks that occurred last year, authorities say they have stopped 13 Islamist and four extreme right-wing plots since the Westminster atrocity in March 2017.

There were 676 live investigations being carried out by the security services and counter-terror police at the end of June, up from more than 500 in March, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said yesterday.

Earlier this year, the Government unveiled a refreshed counter-terror strategy.

Under the blueprint, MI5 intelligence will be shared with bodies outside the security community in an attempt to stop suspects before attack plots can crystallise, while anti-terror laws are to be strengthened to allow earlier interventions.

Defence Minister Tobias Ellwood, who was branded a hero after stepping in to help emergency services in the wake of the 2017 attack outside Parliament, said the incident was a “stark reminder of the threats we continue to face, the need to remain vigilant and the professionalism of @metpoliceuk in once again swiftly and courageously responding”.

A Parliament spokesman said yesterday: “This morning a security incident occurred outside the Palace of Westminster. “The incident is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police.

“The safety and security of those working in or visiting the UK Parliament is our top priority.

“Our current measures are robust and are continuously reviewed.”