Parsons Green: UK Terror Threat Increased To Critical After Tube Bomb
The UK terror threat has been increased to its highest level as police continue the hunt for the person behind the Tube bombing in south-west London.
The prime minister said the threat was now critical, meaning an attack is expected imminently, after a device was detonated at Parsons Green station.
Police said some 1,000 armed officers would be seen across the country after military assistance was requested.
So-called Islamic State has said it was behind the attack, which injured 29.
Mrs May said the military would be providing support to police and would replace them on guard duties at certain sites that are not accessible to the public.
These will include Buckingham Palace, Downing Street, embassies and the Palace of Westminster and will enable armed officers to carry out patrols, the Met said.
Police Scotland also said it would be increasing the number of armed officers on patrol, particularly at key locations and crowded places.
The use of the military to assist police has been done under the first phase of Operation Temperer, a government plan to deploy troops to help police following major terrorist attacks, which was activated for the first time on 23 May following the Manchester Arena attack.
Mrs May said: “The public will see more armed police on the transport network and on our streets, providing extra protection.
“This is a proportionate and sensible step which will provide extra reassurance and protection while the investigation progresses.”
Twenty-nine people have been treated in hospitals, mostly for burns, following the attack at 08:20 BST on Friday on the eastbound District Line train from Wimbledon.
