Security alert over ‘suspicious package’ in Westminster

Whitehall, which houses several government departments, was temporarily closed

Whitehall, which houses several government departments, was temporarily closed (PA)

Parts of Westminster were temporarily shut down by police responding to a security incident.

Buildings in Whitehall, which houses several government departments, were evacuated as officers investigated a “suspicious package” on Wednesday afternoon..

A spokesperson for the Metropolitan Police said it had been called at around 12.15pm and closed roads in the area while officers assessed the package.

A short time later, the force confirmed that the item was found not to be dangerous and cordons were being lifted.

“Officers assessed the package and confirmed it was not suspicious,” a spokesperson said. “Road closures were lifted at approximately 12.45pm.”

It comes weeks after a car crashed into the gates of Downing Street, sparking another evacuation.

The driver was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and dangerous driving.