Theresa May condemns 'callous terrorist attack' that targeted 'youngest in our society'

The Prime Minister has condemned last night's terrorist attack in Manchester as an act of "appalling, sickening cowardice" as she confirmed that police believe they have identified the perpetrator.
Prime Minister Theresa MayPrime Minister Theresa May
Prime Minister Theresa May

In a strongly-worded statement outside Downing Street, Theresa May described the incident as one of the worst terrorist attacks to take place in the UK that "coldly" targeted "the youngest people in our society".

The speech, which followed this morning's meeting of the COBR committee, was the second time Mrs May has had to address the nation following a terrorist attack since entering Number 10.

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It saw her pay tribute to the "bravery" of the emergency services and praise the "countless acts of kindness that brought people closer together" as she stressed that British values "will always prevail".

"It is now beyond doubt that the people of Manchester and of this country have fallen victim to a callous terrorist attack, an attack that targeted some of the youngest people in our society with cold calculation," Mrs May said.

"This was among the worst terrorist incidents we have ever experienced in the United Kingdom. And although it is not the first time Manchester has suffered in this way, it is the worst attack the city has experienced and the worst-ever to hit the north of England.

"Police and security services are working at speed to establish the complete picture. But I want to tell you what I can at this stage.

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"We now know that a single terrorist detonated his improvised explosive device near one of the exits of the venue, deliberately choosing the time and place to cause maximum carnage and to kill and injure indiscriminately.

"The explosion coincided with the conclusion of a pop concert, which was attended by many young families and groups of children.

"All acts of terrorism are cowardly attacks on innocent people, but this attack stands out for its appalling, sickening cowardice, deliberately targeting innocent defenceless children and young people who should have been enjoying one of the most memorable nights of their lives.

"We struggle to comprehend the warped and twisted mind that sees a room packed with young children not as a scene to cherish but as an opportunity for carnage.

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"But we can continue to resolve to thwart such attacks in future - to take on and defeat the ideology that often fuels this violence, and if there turn out to be others responsible for this attack to seek them out and bring them to justice."

All major parties have agreed to suspend campaigning today. It is understood that the Prime Minister will travel to Manchester to meet police and local leaders ahead of another meeting of COBR this afternoon.

more to follow