London terror attack took place just YARDS from 1979 car bomb that killed a Tory MP
THE former shadow Northern Ireland Secretary, Airey Neave, was killed just yards from where the horrific scenes of the London attack broke out after a car bomb exploded 38 years ago.
Westminster attack mapped
Terror struck the heart of London yesterday afternoon after an attacker, armed with two large knives, forced his way through the gates in front of the Houses of Parliament.
Up to four people – including a policeman – and the perpetrator were killed in the horrific incident with more than 40 injured, with several being reported as in being a serious condition.
The attacker was shot dead at the scene by officers outside Parliament, just yard from where Mr Neave was murdered as he drove away from Westminster car park in 1979.
Airey Neave was killed outside of Westminster car park in 1979
Scenes outside of the London attack on Wednesday afternoon
The former shadow Northern Ireland secretary Airey Neave never gained consciousness after he was pulled from the wreckage following the explosion.
He died aged 63 at Westminster Hospital an hour later.
The Irish National Liberation Army claimed responsibility after the attack.
Scenes from the car bomb explosion in 1979
Brings back memories of the death of Airey Neave, a very sad day
Yesterdays horrific scenes were a reminder of the attack, as next Thursday marks the 38th anniversary of the MPs murder.
House of Lords peer Michael Dobbs tweeted: "Parliament in lockdown after shooting. A body on the floor just by spot where Airey Neave was murdered in 1979. Painful memories."
Another man, named Richard, posted: “Brings back memories of the death of Airey Neave, a very sad day."
Two months after Mr Neave's death, Margaret Thatcher swept to power to become Britain's first female Prime Minister.
Margaret Thatcher at the memorial service to Mr Neave
In tribute to Mr Neave, she said: "He was one of freedom's warriors. Courageous, staunch, true.
"He lived for his beliefs and now he has died for them."
Following the recent horrors, terrorism experts have warned the public to be vigilant of further attacks using vehicles.
The threat level in the UK still remains at severe, which has been the case since 2014.