CANDIDATES in the General Election have suspended their campaigning after a suspected terrorist attack killed 22 people in Manchester.
The blast happened at 10.35pm in Manchester Arena where a concert by singer Ariana Grande was taking place. The number of injured stands at 59.
Police say a lone male attacker who died in the blast detonated an improvised explosive device.
In light of what has happened. We'll be suspending all campaigning in Leyton and Wanstead as a mark of respect.
— John Cryer (@JohnCryerMP) 23 May 2017
Prime Minister Theresa May will chair a meeting of the Government's emergency Cobra committee this morning.
Conservative candidate for Chingford and Woodford Green Iain Duncan Smith said: "The tragic news from Manchester of the terrorist attack killing and maiming so many has appalled us all.
"My thoughts and prayers are with the families so badly hurt by this horrific attack.
"Here in Chingford and Woodford Green, in line with the national party, we will suspend all campaigning until further notice."
Labour candidate for Walthamstow Stella Creasy tweeted: “Horrific news from Manchester and thoughts with those there.”
Horrific news from Manchester and thoughts with those there - Worth following @MENnewsdesk if you are worried about friends and family.
— stellacreasy (@stellacreasy) 22 May 2017
Conservative candidate for Leyton and Wanstead Laura Farris called the attack "utterly appalling".
All our thoughts and prayers are with everyone involved in the tragic attack in Manchester last night.
— Eleanor Laing (@eleanor4epping) 23 May 2017
Mrs 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."
"A meticulously planned attack" which seems deliberately intended to target children. How utterly appalling.
— Laura Farris (@Laura__Farris) 23 May 2017
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn said: "I am horrified by the horrendous events in Manchester last night. My thoughts are with families and friends of those who have died and been injured.”
Heartbreaking news from Manchester. We're all with you today. Thoughts and prayers with victims and their families. Terror will never win.
— Wes Streeting (@wesstreeting) 23 May 2017
Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron called off an election visit to Gibraltar and the SNP postponed Tuesday's planned manifesto launch.
An emergency number, 0161 856 9400, has been set up for people looking for information about their missing loved ones.
Anyone in the area who has been affected by the attack can share their story by calling 07824530130.
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