Theresa May and the leaders of other political parties have suspended campaigning for the general election following the terrorist attack in Manchester, which has killed at least 19 people.
The prime minister, who had been due to speak at a campaign event in southwest England, will instead chair a meeting of the government’s emergency Cobra committee.
May said the incident at Manchester Arena was being treated by police as an “appalling terrorist attack”.
She added: “All our thoughts are with the victims and the families of those who have been affected.”
The Labour leader, Jeremy Corbyn, who was to have spoken in the West Midlands, said it was a “terrible incident”. He tweeted: “My thoughts are with all those affected and our brilliant emergency services.”
In a later statement, Corbyn said: “I would like to pay tribute to the emergency services for their bravery and professionalism in dealing with last night’s appalling events.
“I have spoken with the prime minister and we have agreed that that all national campaigning in the general election will be suspended until further notice.”
The Scottish National party was due to unveil its election manifesto on Tuesday, but it has now postponed the event.
SNP leader and Scottish first minister Nicola Sturgeon will instead chair a meeting of the devolved government’s resilience committee.
A statement from Sturgeon said: “My thoughts are with the victims, their families and all those who have been affected by this barbaric attack in Manchester.”
The Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron cancelled a planned campaign visit to Gibraltar, where he was to speak about Brexit and meet overseas-based voters.
Farron said: “This is a shocking and horrific attack targeting children and young people who were simply enjoying a concert.
“My deepest sympathies are with the victims, and with families who have lost loved ones, as well as those desperately waiting for news.
“I would like to pay tribute to the bravery and dedication of the emergency services.
Paul Nuttall, leader of Ukip, said his party would also be halting its election campaign.
