In a statement published on the cathedral's website, Dean Knowles said they were left with "no lawful alternative" but to close St Paul's.

BBC: Talks continue on St Paul's and protest closure decision

The Reverend Rob Marshall said it had been a "difficult week" for St Paul's, but "we continue to have quite good relations with those outside in the tents".

BBC: St Paul's camp: Occupy London is 'tourist attraction'

But Dr Giles Fraser, canon chancellor of St Paul's Cathedral, said it was "outrageous" to compare "something like fiddling expenses with the way people love each other".

BBC: Appointing gay bishop 'risks splitting Church'

But the protesters currently camped in the churchyard of St Paul's Cathedral, near Paternoster Square, the Stock Exchange's home since 2004, reflect a broader anger that makes it tricky for politicians to speak up for finance.

ECONOMIST: London as a financial centre

But demonstrators "have done so much to ensure that St Paul's can remain open", said Ronan McNern, spokesman for Occupy London Stock Exchange (OLSX).

BBC: St Paul's camp: Occupy London is 'tourist attraction'

Andy Jackson fired the hosts into a third minute lead but was later stretchered off after a clash with St Mirren keeper Paul Gallacher.

BBC: Andy Jackson

Steven Whittaker arrowed a low drive into the grasp of St Mirren goalkeeper Paul Gallacher before setting up Miller for a run and shot but the striker could not keep his effort down.

BBC: St Mirren 0-1 Rangers

But the Tate Modern should soon be linked to the other side of the Thames and to St Paul's cathedral by the Millennium Bridge for pedestrians the first new Thames crossing constructed since 1894.

ECONOMIST: The Tate Modern