Lions tour carries terror risk - English

Prime Minister Bill English has sent a poignant message to the victims of Manchester, saying New Zealand ‘‘opens its heart’’ to Britain, signing off with the wish that ‘‘their children rest in peace’’.

English, Foreign Minister Gerry Brownlee and Opposition leader Andrew Little were the first to sign a condolence book for the victims of the Ariana Grande concert terror attack in Manchester.

But as the horror of the attack continues to unfold, New Zealand’s thoughts are already turning to the upcoming Lions rugby tour, and whether there will need to be an increase in security.

After its worst terrorist attack for 12 years, Britain has raised the terror threat to the highest possible level, from severe to critical, meaning an attack is expected ‘‘imminently’’.

Twenty-two people, including children, were killed while attending an Ariana Grande music concert in Manchester on Tuesday.

Speaking to reporters yesterday, English said there had been no change to the terror status in New Zealand and there were no indications of a threat here.

But events in Britain would likely impact on security arrangements for the Lions tour, given that security would likely be ‘‘top of mind’’ for British people travelling to attend.

‘‘We have a team of people who are pretty experienced and I’m absolutely sure they will be taking into account these events, if only because so many of the fans who are coming here are coming from the UK so we want to provide reassurance the security arrangements are sensible and people can be safe.’’

English said New Zealand could assure British fans the risks of an attack were being monitored constantly.

‘‘We have a strong focus on public safety; there’s no evidence of heightened risk of attack in New Zealand or around the Lions tour but we will remain vigilant.’’

Labour leader Andrew Little said he sent his sympathy and wishes that ‘‘through solidarity and compassion we will get through these dark times and strive for a peaceful and beautiful world’’.

Little said New Zealand could never rule out that events like the Lions tour would be a target.

‘‘So we have to make sure we are up to scratch our vigilance and security services and make sure people are safe.’’