The Home Secretary said the threat level was increased following an urgent review by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC). It was launched after Sir David Amess, Conservative MP for Southend West, was stabbed to death on Friday at a constituents surgery in Essex.

       Ms Patel, below, told the Commons: "The threat level facing Members of Parliament is now deemed to be substantial.

       "This is the same level as the current national threat to the United Kingdom as a whole, so I can assure the House that our world-class intelligence and security agencies and counter-terror police will now ensure that this change is properly reflected in the operational posture."

       Ms Patel added there was no "specific or imminent threat to MPs" but said the Government is also looking at the security of elected representatives, such as councillors, who have also been subjected to abuse.

       The announcement came after a "mock gallows" was erected outside Parliament by anti-Covid vaccine protesters.

       Police made one arrest The National Police Chiefs' Council said "many" MPs had reassessed their security and are working with forces to implement changes.