In his role as Security Minister, James Brokenshire made a statement in the House of Commons chamber on the UK Terror Threat Level being raised from ‘substantial’ to ‘severe’ following the recent terror attacks in Paris and Vienna.
The threat level system is designed to give a broad indication of the likelihood of a terrorist attack and is based on the latest intelligence from world-leading intelligence agencies and from UK allies around the globe and considers factors including capability, intent and timescale. The upgrade in the threat level to ‘severe’ means a terrorist attack is highly likely.
Whilst James highlighted that the UK faces a serious and enduring threat from terrorism following the recent terrorist attacks in Europe, he underlined the Government’s commitment to stand resolute in tackling terrorism in all its forms and strands. James also provided assurance that the upgrade in the threat level to ‘severe’ is a precautionary measure and assured that the Government have taken steps to ensure that counter-terrorism policing and the Security Service have the necessary tools and powers to keep us all safe from the threat from terrorism which included additional Police Officers being deployed in certain areas.
In his statement, James said:
“The UK faces a serious and enduring threat from terrorism. Recent events in France and Vienna have provided a stark and brutal reminder of the risks that we face and the continuing need to be resolute in the face of those who would wish to sow division and hatred. This Government are committed to tacking terrorism in all its forms and to supporting our friends, partners and allies against those who would do us harm. We stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of France and Austria at this time of hurt and pain. Our thoughts are with the bereaved and all those who mourn the loss of loved ones. We have made formal offers of support to their Governments and underlined our shared resolve to stand together in solidarity against the extremists who despise our liberal values and our very way of life.”
“At this time, I urge the public to remain vigilant. We should be alert but not alarmed, and any suspicious or concerning behaviour should be reported to the police. Those responsible for these attacks want to change our very way of life. Our clear message to them is that our values, our freedoms and our principles are what make us strong, and that they will never succeed.”
