George Brandis (Queensland, Liberal Party, Attorney-General) Share this | Hansard source

Thank you, Senator Wong, for giving me the opportunity to update the Senate on the events in London overnight. As senators will be aware, five individuals have now died and around 40 people have been injured in the terrorist attack on the British parliament building yesterday afternoon, London time. London metropolitan police have confirmed that the five deceased include one police officer, three civilians and the attacker. While the investigation is still ongoing, British authorities have confirmed they are currently operating on the belief that this attack is the result of Islamist related terrorism. I am sorry to have to tell the Senate that, contrary to earlier reporting, an Australian permanent resident has been hospitalised in London with injuries sustained in the attack. Our consular staff in London are offering her assistance.

As Prime Minister Turnbull said this morning, the attack on the British parliament is an attack on parliaments, freedom and democracy everywhere. We condemn the attack and are deeply saddened by the loss of innocent life. Prime Minister May this morning rightly described the attack as 'sick and depraved' and commended the exceptional bravery of the police and security services who continually risk their lives to keep their citizens safe. We stand in solidarity with the people of the United Kingdom and our thoughts and prayers are with them at this time. In the face of such tragedy, Australians can be reassured that our agencies and police forces are working relentlessly to keep us safe. May I conclude by echoing the words of the Prime Minister this morning: we will never let the terrorists divide us or challenge our democratic way of life and the freedoms which we cherish.