I'm shocked and saddened by the horrific attack in Manchester last night. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their family and friends, as well as with the people of Manchester. I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to our fantastic emergency services who have been helping all night and this morning.
All acts of terrorism are cowardly attacks on innocent people, but the attack in Manchester stands out for its appalling cowardice.
The police and security services have done a tremendous job and are still piecing together the evidence and making investigations to discover all those responsible.
We experienced the worst of humanity in Manchester, but we also saw the best. The cowardice of the attacker was met with the bravery of our emergency services and the people of Manchester. The attempt to divide us met countless acts of kindness, bringing people closer together.
Over the coming days, weeks and months more information about those who were murdered will come to light and we will all understand the great loss that the families affected, Manchester and the whole of the UK have suffered as a result of this act of cruel barbarity.
It is right to take time out of the campaign to remember those who died and show respect for their memories both locally and nationally.