MSPs were evacuated from their block in the Scottish Parliament after reports this morning of suspect packages being received.

Police arrived at the scene and the office space occupied by more than 100 members and their staff was closed.

It is understood Tory MSPs Edward Mountain, Jamie Halcro Johnston and Liz Smith were targeted.

In a series of tweets during the incident, newspaper journalist Andy Philip said: "MSPs evacuated from Holyrood offices after 'white powder' package opened in Tory Jamie Halcro Johnston's office.

"Another Tory, Edward Mountain, targeted but package not opened. Both are Highlands MSPs."

He added: "A third package found in Tory MSP Liz Smith's office. Police and fire officers cleared all floors of the office block."

Radio journalist Alan Smith, who was present in the lobby of the building, tweeted: MSPs have been evacuated from the members block of Holyrood - it’s understood suspect packages were sent to Tory MSP offices."

A spokesman for the Scottish Parliament spokesman said: "An incident has occurred requiring the evacuation of the MSP building at Holyrood."

A meeting of Holyrood's justice committee, held in a different part of the building, continued while emergency services investigated the incident.

Shortly after 1pm a police cordon at the entrance to the members' tower was lifted shortly and MSPs and their staff were allowed to return to their offices.

A Scottish Parliament spokesman said:"The emergency services have confirmed the incident is now resolved.

"Parliamentary business as well as all tours and events will go ahead as planned this afternoon.

"The MSP block is now open and Members and their staff can return to their offices.

"The Scottish Parliament building remains open to the public".

He thanked all building users for their patience and co-operation.