Election campaigning suspended after Manchester terror attack leaves 22 dead

Manchester: Picture credit - Peter Byrne/PA Wire/PA Images

General election campaigning in Scotland has been suspended after a terror attack in Manchester which left at least 22 people dead.

An explosion occurred at Manchester Arena at about 10.35 last night after a concert by US singer Ariana Grande.

The Prime Minister will chair a meeting of the emergency Cobra committee this morning to discuss the Government’s response.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: “My thoughts are with the victims, their families and all those who have been affected by this barbaric attack in Manchester.

“The Scottish Government is working with Police Scotland and the UK Government to ensure that we have a full understanding of the developing situation.  

“I will convene a meeting of the Scottish Government’s resilience committee this morning to receive an update and to consider any implications for Scotland.”

Theresa May said: “We are working to establish the full details of what is being treated by the police as an appalling terrorist attack. 

“All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected.”

More than 50 people have been injured in the attack, which is believed to have been carried out by a suicide bomber.

Across the UK, Labour and the Conservatives have agreed to suspend political campaigning until further notice, while the SNP has postponed its manifesto launch, which had been due to take place this morning.

Scottish Labour leader Kezia Dugdale said: “This is a barbaric and sickening attack, targeted at young and vulnerable people enjoying a night at a concert.

“It is a heartbreaking moment for our country, and our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who have lost their lives and with those who are injured.

“Across the UK we are today grieving for the people of Manchester. I pay tribute to the dedication of the brave emergency service workers who ran into danger.

“We have all been moved by the actions of ordinary people who opened their doors, cared for scared youngsters, provided transport to concert-goers, and are giving blood at donor banks to help those injured. This great city is today demonstrating to the world the true spirit of Manchester.

“As a mark of respect, Scottish Labour will be suspending all general election campaigning today.”

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie said he was “horrified” by the events in Manchester.

“My deepest sympathies are with the victims, and with families who have lost loved ones, as well as those desperately waiting for news,” he added.
 
“As a sign of respect, all general election campaigning has been suspended.”

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said it "goes without saying" that political campaigning will cease today.

She added: "Terrorism has once against struck our country and, once again, we are faced with a sense of disbelief that someone could be capable of carrying out such an appalling act. 

“We all stand with the people of Manchester."