Government ministers and MPs have reacted to last night's special forces operation off the Isle of Wight.

The SBS conducted a lightning raid on the Nave Andromeda to remove seven stowaways suspected of trying to hijack the stricken tanker.

Read more: How the Isle of Wight oil tanker incident unfolded.

The stowaways are now in police custody and the ship is safely docked in Southampton.

Health secretary Matt Hancock said: "Speaking this morning about the Nave Andromeda incident off the Isle of Wight, Heath Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky News: “I can confirm that the crew are safe and the operation to secure the vessel has concluded successfully.”

Home secretary Priti Patel said last night: "Tonight we are thankful for the quick and decisive action of our police and armed forces who were able to bring this situation under control, guaranteeing the safety of all those on board."

Read more: Who are the elite forces behind the rescue operation?

Isle of Wight MP Bob Seely said: "Thank you to Hampshire Consabulary, HM Coastguard, and the UK armed forces for their swift and decisive action today, also to Ben Wallace, secretary of state for defence and Home Secretay Priti Patel for clear leadership."