Britain steps up security at possible terror targets

Armed police officers are being deployed to protect probable terrorist targets in London. The officers are part of a 1,500-strong force patrolling the capital's streets in a massive national security operation unveiled yesterday.

Police forces across the country stepped up their anti-terrorism measures with extra patrols, more armed officers and road checks.

Scotland Yard has drawn up a list of vulnerable targets, such as American schools, religious centres and government buildings. Politicians and VIPs were also listed. Extra armed officers have already been posted at several sites, including Downing Street, and specialist firearms officers will be on call in up to 50 rapid-response cars. The Met is also liaising with British Transport Police and routinely patrolling the London Underground.

City of London Police increased foot patrols and were giving close attention to possible targets such as the Bank of England. Sir John Stevens, the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, said armed road-blocks could also be set up in the next few weeks.

Sir Johnrevealed a five-week programme yesterday to boost security in the capital during the Iraq conflict.

About 320 officers were put on to the streets yesterday, and between 800 and 1,500 additional officers will be on duty from lunchtime today. Sir John said that while there was no specific terrorist threat to London, the extra security measures were needed with the onset of war.

Additional protection is being made available at dozens of sites identified as vulnerable to terrorism or disorder from protesters. They include the financial centres at Canary Wharf and the City, military locations, US military sites, places linked to Israel, Jewish or Muslim venues, key business locations, and ports and other transport targets.

Sir John said the Met had prepared for a number of possible types of terrorist outrages, including bombings and an attack using chemical or biological weapons.

He said there was a "certain amount of nervousness" among Muslim and Jewish communities. But he stressed: "We want to reassure Londoners that their safety is the Metropolitan Police's primary concern. My message is 'be alert, not alarmed'. We don't want to get people so alarmed they don't come to work. It is business as usual. We have planned for this for months – ever since 11 September."

Out of London, armed guards have been deployed at Glasgow airport and at RAF Fairford, Gloucestershire, where B-52 bombers are stationed.

In the West Midlands, police were carrying out extra patrols and plans were in place to put up road-blocks at vulnerable sites such as Birmingham city centre. Paul Scott-Lee, the force's Chief Constable, said: "There is no specific threat to the West Midlands. However, it is recognised that there is increased concern about the possibility of terrorist action"

Greater Manchester Police refused to disclose whether they were increasing security. A spokeswoman said: "We are continually reassessing the position."