Saturday, July 23, 2011

Queen 'saddened' by Norway attack

23 July 2011 Last updated at 10:08 GMT Medics and emergency workers escort an injured person from the island of Utoeya Scores of young people attending a youth camp were shot by the gunman The Queen has written to the king of Norway to express sympathy over the attacks in his country.

She said the thoughts of her and the Duke of Edinburgh were with the Norwegian people.

A bomb attack in Oslo was followed by a gunman opening fire at a youth camp, leaving at least 84 people dead.

Her message to King Harald said: "I am deeply saddened and shocked by the tragic loss of life of so many people on the island of Utoeya and in Oslo."

She added: "Prince Philip joins me in extending our heartfelt sympathy to your majesty and the people of Norway. Our prayers and thoughts are with everyone who has been affected by the dreadful atrocity."

The Norwegian embassy in Belgrave Square, central London, was open on Saturday, its flag flying at half mast.

A spokesman said: "We're open for any Norwegians who might need someone to speak to or feel the need to be with someone."

At least seven people were killed in the bombing and scores more are known to have died at the camp for young members of the Labour Party in Utoeya, an island outside the capital.

Police have charged a 32-year-old Norwegian man, Anders Behring Breivik, over both attacks.

The Foreign Office has advised British nationals in Norway to take extra care.

In a statement on its website, the Foreign Office said: "We recommend that British nationals stay indoors for the time being. British nationals are advised to exercise caution, monitor local media reporting and follow advice given by the emergency services."

Diplomats also say they are checking whether any British nationals are affected by the tragedy.

Around 250,000 British tourists visit Norway every year, the Foreign Office says on the Norway travel advice section of its website.

And according to the UK embassy in Oslo, there are also 25,000 to 30,000 Britons resident in the country.

Travel advice

Prime Minister David Cameron has said he was "outraged" by the attack.

He said he has spoken to the country's PM Jens Stoltenberg to express the UK's condolences and offered assistance in tracking down the perpetrators.

Mr Cameron said: "My thoughts are with the wounded and those who have lost friends and family, and I know everyone in Britain will feel the same.

"These attacks are a stark reminder of the threat we all face from terrorism.

"I have called Prime Minister Stoltenberg this evening to express my sincere condolences and to let him know that our thoughts are with the Norwegian people at this tragic time.

"I have offered Britain's help, including through our close intelligence cooperation."


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