Armed police officers will continue guarding the Scottish Parliament following a review of the building's security.

The officers were dispatched to Holyrood following the terrorist attacks in Manchester and London.

Security was stepped up in and around the building following the incident, with MSPs having to go through airport-style security as members of the public have to do.

The security cordon has so far uncovered 70 knives held by visitors to Holyrood in the first half of the year.

Police Scotland described the decision to maintain armed officers as "proportionate and justified" but it will be reviewed every three months.

Assistant chief constable Bernard Higgins said: "Following the terrorist attack at Westminster on March 22, 2017 officers armed with tasers were deployed at the Scottish Parliament but that was increased to officers with conventional firearms after the horrific attack in Manchester and maintained following the terrorist attack in London.

"Over the last two and a half months a review of parliamentary security has been completed and a report has been provided to the Scottish Parliament.

"In support of one of the recommendations contained in the report we have made the operational decision to maintain armed police officer presence at the Scottish Parliament on an ongoing basis."

He added: "This is an operational contingency to provide protection and reassurance to the public and staff who attend at the Scottish Parliament.

"This will hopefully never be needed but demonstrates our ability to respond to any eventuality."

Sir Paul Grice, Holyrood's chief executive, said: "While the advice is that there is no specific threat to the parliament at this time, their clear rationale is to provide an enhanced visible deterrent and ensure the safety of all those who work in and visit Holyrood."