Government response

Home Secretary's statement on Woolwich attack

Statement by Home Secretary Theresa May in response to the attack in Woolwich.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government
Home Office

Home Secretary Theresa May said

What happened today in Woolwich was a sickening and barbaric attack.

I have been briefed by the Commissioner of the Metropolitan Police and the Director General of the Security Service, and this evening I chaired a meeting of COBR.

The police and Security Service are establishing the full facts of this barbaric case, but there is a strong indication that it was an act of terrorism.

The Prime Minister is returning to London and will chair another COBR meeting in the morning.

In the meantime, security has been increased at Army barracks across London.

This attack was an attack on everyone in the United Kingdom, and it will be condemned by people from every community.

Our thoughts and prayers tonight are with the victim and his family.

We have seen terrorism on the streets of Britain before, and have always stood firm against it. Despicable acts like these will not go unpunished.

Read more about the government response.

Updates to this page

Published 22 May 2013