Statement on the Reading terrorist attack
22 June 2020 (updated on 22 June 2020)
Today in the chamber, the Home Secretary gave a statement to the house regarding the recent Reading terror attack.
The Secretary of State, Priti Patel, told the House that "the senseless terror attack which took place in Reading on Saturday evening" is now subject to an ongoing police investigation.
Priti Patel MP: "The suspect remains in custody."
Speaking of the incident, the Home Secretary told the House that,"around 7pm on Saturday evening, a 25 year old male entered Forbury Gardens in the centre of Reading and began to viciously attack several groups of people."
The Home Secretary told the House that the armed suspect remains in custody, and that "after initial investigations, the counter terrorism policing declared the attack a terrorist incident, and are now leading the investigation."
She added:
"Police have confirmed the threat is contained, but that sadly three innocent members of the public were killed."
The Home Secretary sent her thoughts and prayers to the family and friends of those hurt or killed as a result of the attack.
Nick Thomas-Symonds: "We are indebted to our outstanding police officers."
The Shadow Home Secretary, Nick Thomas-Symonds responded by sending his thoughts and condolences to the families and friends of the victims of the attack.
Mr Thomas-Symonds called the incident "one of senseless violence", adding "as always we are indebted to our outstanding police officers and other emergency service personnel."
The Shadow Home Secretary added:
"I know the whole House will support the police as they carry out the highly detailed, careful investigation that is necessary with an incident like this. And I hope the Home Secretary can confirm that all necessary resources will be made available to Thames Valley police and to counter terrorism policing."
Mr Thomas-Symonds went on to ask the Home Secretary for assurance that "the Government will never again cut the numbers of community police, and will instead build the capacity that's required for law enforcement", and that "the Serious Violence taskforce which has not met since 26 June 2019, will meet sooner on a regular basis."
Image: PA Image
Find out more
- Watch Parliament TV: Statement: Reading terrorist attack.
- Transcripts of proceedings in the House of Commons Chamber are available in Hansard online three hours after they happen.