The Commons has voted for the erection of a permanent security screen in its public gallery. The screen will be installed in 2005 and will cost the taxpayer £1.3 million.

The decision comes after the head of MI5, Eliza Manningham-Buller, gave the leader of the Commons "clear intelligence" pointing to a possible attack.

MPs were told there was evidence of a "specific threat" to use anthrax or ricin against the Chamber.