The has flown back to London, cutting short a trip to France, to lead the government response to a suspected terror attack in south-east London.

Two men have been arrested after a man, thought to be a soldier, died in an attack near Woolwich Barracks.

The Prime Minister will chair a Cobra emergency response committee meeting to be attended by politicians, the UK's most senior police officer and the new head of MI5. Meanwhile, security has been increased at barracks across London.

Two suspects shot and wounded by police after the attack – which took place in John Wilson Street, have spent the night under arrest in hospital. One is in a serious condition while the other is also being treated for injuries.

Eyewitnesses say the victim was hacked to death by two men shouting Islamist slogans.