Big Ben climbers 'planning all-day protest'

Two anti-war protesters who scaled Big Ben in London are planning to stay there all day, Scotland Yard said today.

Police were called to the famous landmark at about 6.15am after the men were spotted climbing the clock tower.

Wearing protective helmets and harnesses, they had reached a 150ft high ledge just below the clockface by about 9.30am.

A spokesman for Scotland Yard said they would be looking into how the pair - who appeared to be proficient climbers – managed to breach security at the site.

“They have indicated they wish to stay up there for the whole day. We are hoping it will be resolved through talking to them.”

The protest is believed to have been organised by Greenpeace, the spokesman added.