Brighton and Hove is to join a minute’s silence at 11am tomorrow (Tuesday 6 June) in remembrance of the victims of the weekend terror attack in London.
Flags on public buildings were flown at half mast today and the three party leaders on Brighton and Hove City Council issued a joint statement.
Councillor Warren Morgan, the Labour leader of the council, Conservative opposition leader Councillor Tony Janio and Green group convenor Councillor Phélim Mac Cafferty said yesterday: “It’s with great sadness that today we have found ourselves repeating words like ‘shocked’, ‘appalled’ and ‘bewildered’ in conversations with our friends, families and neighbours about the terror attack in London last night.
“While it’s hard to find new and apt words to describe our condemnation of senseless attacks on everyday life, we repeat louder than ever and over and over again that we stand together strong – united in compassion with people from all faiths and backgrounds.
“Division and hatred drives people into the ranks of those trying to recruit support to their terror campaigns. We will not let this happen.
“We send our deepest sympathy to all affected by these dreadful attacks and we thank the emergency services who once again have shown incredible bravery and skill in responding to horrific assaults on innocent people on busy streets and in packed bars and restaurants.
“We will join the nation in paying our respects when we observe a minute’s silence on Tuesday at 11am in remembrance of those who lost their lives and all others affected by the attacks.
“Flags on council buildings in the city will fly at half mast from tomorrow (Monday) morning.
“We will also be writing to the leader and chief executive of Southwark Council and the mayor of London Sadiq Khan offering our support and condolences.”
The council encouraged people to report suspicious behaviour or activity and said: “Co-operation between the public and the police is the greatest asset in tackling the challenge the UK faces from terrorism.
“Sussex Police and Brighton and Hove City Council are asking all residents and communities to remain aware and to report any suspicious behaviour or activity immediately by calling the confidential anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789321 or call 999 in an emergency.
“You can also make a report on the Sussex Police website.”