Jeremy Corbyn statement

Jeremy Corbyn MP,
Leader of the Labour Party, said:

“What
happened yesterday was an appalling atrocity.

“Today,
we are united by our humanity, by our democratic values and by that human
impulse for solidarity to stand together in times of darkness and adversity.

“I
express my condolences to the family and friends of PC Keith Palmer, who gave
his life yesterday in defence of the public and our democracy – and to the
loved ones of those still in a critical condition including the French
schoolchildren visiting our capital from Concarneau in Brittany. The injured
include people of ten nationalities. Innocent people were killed yesterday
walking across Westminster Bridge as many millions of Londoners and tourists
have done before them.

“I
thank all the dedicated NHS staff working to save lives, including those from
St Thomas’ Hospital who rushed out to help those in need. We are grateful for
the public service workers who yesterday, today and every day they pull on
their uniforms.

“It
behoves us all not to rush to judgement, but to wait for the police to
establish the facts. We must stay united in our communities and not to allow
fear or the voices of hatred to divide or cower us.

“It
is by demonstrating our values of solidarity, community, humanity and love that
we will defeat the poison and division of hatred.”