Politicians described chaotic scenes in Westminster after a security alert meant many had to be evacuated from Parliament.
Peer Sheila Noakes wrote: “Shots in Parliament Square. People running like crazy.”
Conservative MP Grant Shapps tweeted: “Police response instant. Heard commotion, looked round. Police weapons drawn, 4 shots, police ordered us to hit ground & get back, get back.”
Fellow Tory Michael Fabricant described a similar scene, saying: “I was walking briskly to a vote when crowds of MPs rushed towards me saying that shots have been fired and shouts of ’get back’.”
Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron tweeted shortly after news of the incident broke: “Currently with a shell-shocked group of MPs at New Scotland Yard having been evacuated following the attack. Police doing an incredible job.”
Many MPs spoke about being locked inside rooms in the Parliament building and took to Twitter to tell friends and family they were safe.
There is an ongoing incident in parliament. I’m safe in the chamber with most colleagues and hope everyone outside is safe too.
— Callum McCaig (@callum_mccaig) March 22, 2017
Commons in lockdown right now – a security incident outside parli. @callum_mccaig and I are safe. Thank you to those who've got in touch.
— Kirsty Blackman (@KirstySNP) March 22, 2017
In lockdown following security incident at Westminster. Thoughts with police, security and emergency services outside. Thanks for messages.
— Eilidh Whiteford (@EilidhWhiteford) 22 March 2017
Incident at WM. Police did great job at clearing everyone away. Now behind police cordon outside PCH. Thought with those affected.
— Stuart Donaldson MP (@StuieDonaldson) March 22, 2017
The doorkeeping staff + police here have been very effective. I saw some of it unfold but was always kept safe until escorted back in. Grim
— Drew Hendry MP (@drewhendrySNP) March 22, 2017