Caroline Nokes MP's office 'suspicious substance' alert stood down

Conservative club member Nicholas Palmer took this picture from inside the building

The constituency office of immigration minister Caroline Nokes has been reopened after tests showed a substance found in an envelope was harmless.

Police sealed off Romsey Conservative Club in Hampshire at about 11:20 BST, while emergency workers in white protective suits spoke to those inside.

The cordon was lifted at about 14:40 after police said there was no risk to the public.

Ms Nokes confirmed a staff member discovered the suspicious substance.

The Romsey and Southampton North MP was not in the building at the time.

Emergency services were called to the town centre at 11:20 BST

In a statement, police said: "A cordon was put in place as a precaution while tests were carried out to establish what the substance was.

"Following those tests we can confirm that the substance is not hazardous and there is no risk to the public."

Police said some officers would remain on the scene in Market Place while inquiries continue.

Minster of State for Immigration Caroline Nokes (centre) has been in Downing Street for talks with the prime minister in relation to the Windrush immigration controversy

Ms Nokes issued a statement thanking emergency services for dealing with the situation "so swiftly and professionally".

She said: "This morning staff in my constituency office opened an envelope which contained a suspicious substance.

"They followed guidelines, evacuated the office and informed the police immediately.

"At this stage it appears this was a hoax and I am relieved that all those involved are safe and well."

A witness said six ambulances were on the scene

Romsey Conservative Club was evacuated "as a precaution"