MPs have praised the “swift and effective response” by emergency services to a terror attack in the heart of the capital.

A man rammed his car, a Silver Ford Fiesta, into a group of pedestrians and cyclists outside the Houses of Parliament shortly after 7:30 am this morning, injuring three people.

The suspect, who is in his late 20s and not believed to be known to MI5 or counter-terrorism police, is not co-operating with officers.

One woman involved in the crash is being treated in hospital for serious but non life-threatening injuries.

MPs have rallied around the quick thinking and professionalism of the police.

Theresa Villiers Chipping Barnet MP said: "It's shocking that a vehicle has once again been used to mount a deliberate attack in the streets of our capital city.

“I thank the emergency services for their swift and effective response. My thoughts are with those who have been injured.

“I condemn absolutely the person responsible for what seems to have been a terrorist attack on Parliament. We will never allow our democratic values to be undermined by violent actions of the kind that took place this morning”.

Mike Freer, Finchley and Golders Green MP said: “Luckily the police, as ever, reacted swiftly and professionally and we are very lucky to have such a dedicated and professional police force.

“The parliamentary estate is secure, and my staff in Westminster were quickly reassured and kept safe.”

Matthew Offord MP for Hendon said: “It is still too early to speculate why this incident has occurred but the thought of terrorism remains at the forefront of many people's minds.

“What we do know is that the police and security services were instantly on the scene, removing the driver of the car and allowing the London Ambulance Service to treat cyclists and pedestrians who were in the path of the vehicle.

“My staff are safe as they are in a contained area and work will continue as normal in Parliament. This is a reminder that we must remain ever vigilant but continue as normal”.

Scotland Yard says officers remain at the scene, and cordons are in place.

Road closures in the area are likely to remain in place for some time, and Westminster Tube station is currently closed.

The police have said they are treating this as a terrorist incident and the Met's Counter Terrorism Command is now leading the investigation.

Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation should call 0800 789 321.

Anyone who may have footage or images of the incident is asked to send them to police via www.ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk