A group of protesters have scaled the Scottish parliament building to hang a banner and the Palestinian flag.

The group of five climbed up the awning outside the main entrance on Thursday morning, unfurling a banner that said: “stop arming Israel”.

Police have cordoned off the area underneath but business in the parliament is continuing.

The incident came ahead of First Minister’s Questions in the chamber at 12pm.

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As reporters shouted questions to the protesters, one member of the group said: “We’re here to put pressure on the Scottish government to take action against arms exports to Israel.

“The occupation of Palestine is illegal, what’s happening right now is genocide.”

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The group, who have their faces covered, did not say if they are part of any organisation.

A Scottish parliament spokesperson said: “Protesters have gained access to the roof and unfurled a banner.

“Police Scotland are in attendance. There is no disruption to parliament business and public access to the building is unaffected.”

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “We’re aware of the protest and officers are in attendance.”

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