The Queen releases statement following Westminster attack

The Queen has released a statement following the horrific attack in Westminster on Wednesday, offering her "deepest sympathy" to those affected by the incident. The monarch, who had planned to open the New Scotland Yard building on Thursday, also announced that she and Prince Philip have decided to postpone the event.

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The statement read: "Following the shocking events in Westminster, Prince Philip and I are sorry that we will not be able to open the New Scotland Yard building as planned today, for very understandable reasons. I look forward to visiting at a later date. My thoughts, prayers, and deepest sympathy are with all those who have been affected by yesterday's awful violence. I know I speak for everyone in expressing my enduring thanks and admiration for the members of the Metropolitan Police Service and all who work so selflessly to help and protect others."

© Photo: Getty Images

The Queen has released a statement following the attack

Celebrities and politicians have flooded to social media to pay their respects to the victims of the attacks and to praise the emergency services for their quick responses. Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid said: "My heart totally goes out to those hurt & affected by this awful event at Westminster. Dreadful. Upsetting. And in the aftermath of this attack, our extraordinary emergency services doing incredibly brave & difficult work. Full-strength to the medical staff who'll be at full stretch at St Thomas' Hospital A&E dept which is next to Westminster Bridge."

© Photo: Getty Images

The attack took place in Westminster on Wednesday

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Phillip Schofield wrote: "Watching the news and sending so much love to anyone caught up in this atrocity #London," while Holly Willoughby added: "Just in such shock at what happened today... ‪#Westminster." Catherine Zeta-Jones shared a photo of Big Ben on Instagram, writing: "Big Ben stands strong today, as does the strength and character of the British people. Sending my thoughts and prayers."