Clarke: At least four appalling terror attacks

Terrorists launched a series of “criminal and appalling” attacks on London’s transport network earlier today, British Home Secretary Charles Clarke told the Commons.

In an emergency statement, Mr Clarke told MPs that it was not yet clear which terrorist organisation was responsible for the onslaught.

Mr Clarke told a sombre House that the London Underground was closed and would remain so.

People were strongly advised not to travel into central London today.

Mr Clarke said: “There have this morning been a number of terrorist attacks in central London.

“The situation is developing and I am not yet in a position to give a conclusive account of all that has happened …

“I want to begin by expressing on behalf of the whole country our sympathy for those injured and the friends and families of those who have died.

“I am not in a position at this time to give precise details, but what I can say is that four explosions have been confirmed.

“First on a Tube train between Aldgate East and Liverpool Street; second on a bus in Woburn Place; third on a Tube train between Russell Square and King’s Cross: and fourth on a Tube train at Edgware Road station.

“As yet we do not know who or which organisations are responsible for these criminal and appalling acts.”