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Top London museums increase security over suitcase bomb fears

Security has been increased at the British Museum: Ian Nicholson/PA
Security has been increased at the British Museum: Ian Nicholson/PA

London's museums and art galleries have increased security over fears terrorists could target them with hidden explosives.

Both the National Gallery and the British Museum have clamped down on visitors entering with large items of luggage, according to reports.

The attractions are also screening other bags brought in by visitors, The Sunday Times reported.

It comes after a man was shot by police officers after attacking patrolling soldiers with a knife in the Louvre in Paris.

Museums in London are said to be particularly concerned over the threat posed by bombs being hidden in suitcases.

In March last year, attackers at Brussels airport killed 16 people using bombs in suitcases.

The National Gallery, which is visited by about six million people a year, confirmed to the Standard it had started checking all bags about two weeks ago. It has also banned all suitcases and large items of luggage, and a message on its website reads: "All items left in the cloakrooms may be searched in the interests of safety and security."

Security at the British Museum and St Paul's Cathedral has also been stepped up, The Sunday Times reported.

A spokesman for the British Museum told the newspaper: "We continue to take advice from a number of departments and agencies, including the Metropolitan police."