MPs speak of lock-in ordeal as terror struck
MPS have spoken of the panic that swept Westminster’s corridors as Wednesday’s deadly terror attack unfolded.
Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk was one of hundreds locked in the chamber for around five hours.
He tweeted: “In lockdown in Parliament chamber. Hope people are okay. Thanks to staff & police for keeping us safe.”
And speaking to the Observer the following day he said: “We witnessed a horrific terrorist attack on Wednesday which struck at Parliament, the heart of our democracy.
“I know many in Rochdale and across the country will be affected by what has happened in London, and they will be shocked and saddened by what they’ve seen.
“Like everyone, I have been humbled by the courageous way that the police handled the attack. For me, this puts into perspective the hard work that Rochdale’s emergency services do all year round.”
Pc Keith Palmer, 48, and four other people including the attacker, were confirmed dead after the atrocity in the heart of London.
It’s believed at least 40 others were injured after a man armed with two large knives ploughed through pedestrians, including school children, on Westminster Bridge.
He then targeted the gates in front of the Houses of Parliament, stabbing Pc Palmer before being shot dead by other officers.
Heywood and Middleton MP Liz McInnes was turned away by police as she came into Parliament to vote.
Speaking while still on lock-down in Jeremy Corbyn’s office, Ms McInnes, whose constituency includes Castleton, Norden and Bamford, said: “I think there’s a lot of people in shock who don’t quite realise they’re in shock yet, if that makes sense.
“My genuine and heartfelt sympathy goes out to all those injured and killed and their families.
“It’s been a truly terrible day but at least we are leaving our work alive, unlike that poor policeman and those innocent members of the public. This is an awful day.”
Whitworth MP Jake Berry tweeted he was locked in an office with two ministers and five other colleagues waiting for Westminster to be evacuated.
He later posted: “Thank you to the police officers who are keeping us safe.”
Flags outside Rochdale town hall were flown at half-mast on Thursday in tribute to the victims.
Council leader Richard Farnell said: “This was a senseless and cowardly act at the heart of our democracy and my thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those who so tragically lost their lives.
“This terrible attack will only strengthen our resolve to defeat terrorism, hate and evil. We must stand together, regardless of race, nationality or religion, to combat the perpetrators of these sickening and cowardly acts.” ●●MPs Simon Danczuk, Liz McInnes and Jake Berry were locked in as the terrorist attack unfolded at the Houses of Parliament