The death toll is believed to have reached 49
Theresa May and Jeremy Corbyn have both posted messages offering their condolences to the people of New Zealand in the wake of attacks on two mosques in Christchurch.
The death toll is believed to have reach 49, while at least 20 other people were injured.
The attack took place during afternoon prayers on Friday in New Zealand’s capital, and has been described by the country’s prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, as a terrorist attack.
Theresa May tweeted on Friday morning: “On behalf of the UK, my deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch. My thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence.”
On behalf of the UK, my deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch. My thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence.
— Theresa May (@theresa_may) March 15, 2019
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn tweeted:Â My heart goes out to the victims of the horrific terror attack in New Zealand.
“We stand in solidarity with the Muslim community in Christchurch and around the world.
“We must defeat the bigotry which fuels such hatred and violence.”
My heart goes out to the victims of the horrific terror attack in New Zealand.
We stand in solidarity with the Muslim community in Christchurch and around the world.
We must defeat the bigotry which fuels such hatred and violence.
— Jeremy Corbyn (@jeremycorbyn) March 15, 2019
Australian senator Fraser Anning, meanwhile, attacked Islam, blaming muslim immigration for the attacks.
He has been widely criticised on social media for his comments.
