Terrorists will not succeed, says Home Secretary

Amber Rudd condemns ‘barbaric’ attack on ‘the most vulnerable in our society’

Home Secretary Amber Rudd said the Manchester explosion was a “barbaric” attack on some of the “most vulnerable in our society”.

She said the intention of the attack was to “sow fear” but stressed that it would not succeed.

In a statement, she said: “The great city of Manchester has been affected by terrorism before.

“Its spirit was not bowed, its community continued.

“This time it has been a particular attack on the most vulnerable in our society – its intention was to sow fear – its intention is to divide. “But it will not succeed.” In a message to the families affected Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: “I’m terribly sorry and terribly sad for you.

“There can be nothing worse than losing a child in a situation like this.”

Mr Corbyn condemned the “unspeakable act of horror against wholly innocent young people” as he visited Manchester.

“Every single person who was there last night will be suffering that trauma for the rest of their lives,” he said. “This is a totally dreadful situation.” The Bishop of Manchester said people “mustn’t let the terrorists dictate the way that we live our lives” and that it was “important that we care” for those affected.

The Rt Rev David Walker said faith leaders in the city were “united” and that there were “good relationships” between the different faith communities.

He said: “We will keep those channels of communication open and particularly reach out to any who might be vilified as a result of last night.

“The guilt for last night belongs to the perpetrators and the perpetrators alone – it doesn’t go beyond them.”

He said the Muslim community was “one with us”, adding: “You will be part of how we together respond to last night.”

The Muslim Council of Britain said the Manchester attack was “horrific” and “criminal”.

Secretary general Harun Khan said: “May the perpetrators face the full weight of justice both in this life and the next.

“I pay tribute to the police and emergency services who have worked valiantly to save lives last night.”

He added: “I urge all those in the region and around the country to pull together to support those affected.”

The great city of Manchester has been affected by terrorism before. Its spirit was not bowed, its community continued. AMBER RUDD

Picture: Getty Images Prime Minister Theresa May writes a message of condolence during a visit to Manchester Town Hall yesterday.