The Queen condemns the Manchester attack as an 'act of barbarity'

Reuters / Toby Melville

LONDON — Her Majesty The Queen on Tuesday afternoon delivered a statement expressing her sympathy for the victims of the Manchester terrorist attack and condemning the "barbarity" of the bombing that killed more than 20 people.

In a statement to the Lord-Lieutenant of Greater Manchester Warren Smith, the Queen expressed her "deepest sympathy," while thanking the members of the emergency services who responded to the attack at the Manchester Arena for their "professionalism and care."

She also praised the "humanity and compassion" of citizens in the city who helped after the attack by offering their support to the emergency services.

At least 22 people have been killed and 50 people injured following what is believed to have been a suicide bombing at an Ariana Grande concert late on Monday evening.

You can read the Queen's full statement below:

The whole nation has been shocked by the death and injury in Manchester last night of so many people, adults and children, who had just been enjoying a concert.

I know I speak for everyone in expressing my deepest sympathy to all who have been affected by this dreadful event and especially to the families and friends of those who have died or were injured.

I want to thank all the members of the emergency services, who have responded with such professionalism and care.

And I would like to express my admiration for the way the people of Manchester have responded, with humanity and compassion, to this act of barbarity.

Later on Tuesday, Charles, Prince of Wales commented on the attack, saying: "This appalling atrocity is deeply distressing and fills us with intense sadness." 

At a garden party hosted by the Queen and the Duke of Windsor at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday afternoon, a minute's silence was held for the victims of the attack.

Earlier, Prime Minister Theresa May condemned what she called a "callous terrorist attack" in a speech outside Number 10 Downing Street. 

"This attack stands out for its appalling sickening cowardice," she said, adding that "many children and young people" were among the dead.

"We struggle to comprehend the warped and twisted mind that sees a room packed with young children not as a scene to cherish, but as an opportunity for carnage."

NOW WATCH: This is why the EU flag is failing at bringing people together

See Also:

• REPORT: UK security services were warned 5 times about Manchester attacker Salman Abedi

• Crowdfunding campaign to support the families of Manchester attack victims passes £1 million mark

• US officials continue to leak intelligence on Manchester terror attack despite UK complaints

SEE ALSO: Mayor Andy Burnham will lead a vigil for victims of the Manchester attack on Tuesday night