National campaigning in the general election has been suspended in the wake of the terror attack at London Bridge.

Seven people were killed and at least 48 were injured when three attackers struck in the centre of London around on Saturday night.

The three terrorists drove a van knocking down several pedestrians on London Bridge and headed before stopping at Borough Market, where they stabbed several people.

The Metropolitan Police confirmed the three attackers, who were wearing fake explosive vests at the time of the atrocity, were shot dead around eight minutes after they received the first reports of the attacks at 10.08pm.

Officers have launched a counter-terrorism investigation and Prime Minister Theresa May is to convene a meeting of the UK Government's emergency Cobra committee on Sunday, while First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said she would hold a meeting of the Scottish Government's resilience committee later.

The SNP, the Conservatives, Labour and the Liberal Democrats have all confirmed they have suspended national campaigning on Sunday.

Nicola Sturgeon said her thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have "tragically lost their lives" in the London attack.

She added: "Following the horrific terrorist attack in the centre of London last night, we are working closely with the UK Government and Police Scotland to monitor the situation.

"Later today I will chair a meeting of the Scottish Government's Resilience Committee.

"My thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have tragically lost their lives and with everyone who has been harmed or affected by these terrible incidents."

A senior Conservative spokesman said national events were being suspended and a decision on further campaigning would be taken later in the day.

Responding to the attacks, Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said: "Our hearts all go out to the families of those affected today and to those who lost their lives last night.

"Just as in Manchester, the terrorists behind this appalling incident are trying to attack our freedoms and our values. Just as in Manchester, they will fail.

"Once again, the response of the emergency services - from the officers who rushed to the scene to the paramedics who treated people - was incredible. We all owe them so much."

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said: "Another attack on innocent victims, more grieving families and friends.

"We will not become immune to such tragedies. We stand with all those affected in their grief, ever more determined to overcome."

Flags outside the Scottish Parliament and other public buildings have been lowered to half mast.

It is the second time the campaign for the June 8 poll has been interrupted by atrocities, following a three-day pause after the suicide bomb attack in Manchester.

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said his party would also be suspending national campaigning until the evening, after consultation with other parties.