Simon Danczuk and Liz McInnes respond to terror attack in London

Two officers at a cordoned off area on the way to the Houses of Parliament in central London

Local MPs Simon Danczuk and Liz McInnes have spoken of their horror after five people died in a suspected terrorist attack that struck at the heart of democracy.

A knifeman ploughed a car into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge, killing three people and injuring 40, then ran through security gates at the Houses of Parliament and fatally stabbed a policeman before being shot dead by police. MPs were trapped inside Westminster for almost five hours as Parliament went into lock down during the aftermath.

Rochdale MP Simon Danczuk said: “We witnessed a horrific terrorist attack on Wednesday (22 March) which struck at Parliament, the heart of our democracy.

"I know many in Rochdale and across the country will be affected by what has happened in London, and they will be shocked and saddened by what they’ve seen.

"Like everyone, I have been humbled by the courageous way that the police handled the attack. For me, this puts into perspective the hard work that Rochdale’s emergency services do all year round.

"Rochdale Town Hall flew the flag at half-mast as a mark of respect to the victims of this attack, and I met with Rochdale police officers to thank them for their hard work and diligence.

"I know that Greater Manchester Police work constantly to prevent events like this happening and I have every faith in their ability to keep us safe from harm.”

Liz McInnes, Heywood & Middleton MP, said: "Yesterday’s attack in Westminster was cowardly and vicious. My thoughts are with the families and friends of those innocent people who were killed and injured.

"The terrorist, whatever his precise motives prove to be, is the worst of humanity - cruel and indiscriminate. In contrast, the response to his actions by others demonstrated the very best of humanity.

"PC Keith Palmer is a hero who will be remembered for giving his life so that others may live. He was a husband and a father and my heart goes out to his family. My thoughts and sincere thanks are today also with his colleagues who, as always, are bravely and professionally carrying out their duties, dedicated to protecting others.

"My fellow MP Tobias Ellwood did all he could to help save PC Palmer’s life and is also, quite rightly, being hailed as a hero.

"Many others acted selflessly and with incredible bravery to help the victims on Westminster Bridge and outside parliament in the moments after the attack and they each represent the best of us.

"When horrific events like this occur, we must strive to remember these acts of humanity which outnumber and will outlast in every way the actions of violent cowards. We must remember those like PC Keith Palmer who when confronted with danger resist the natural urge for personal safety and instead run towards it in order to keep others from harm.

"There will be those who will seek to capitalise on yesterday’s events and to sow division in our country, but that would be exactly what those who use terror as a tool would want us to do. I believe that our democracy and our way of life is stronger than the power of any terrorist. The terrorists will only succeed if we ourselves retreat into hatred and division. We must remember and uphold the very values the terrorists would seek to destroy – tolerance, compassion, freedom and democracy.

"At times of crisis such as this it is more important than ever that we unite as one to remember those values and the very best of humanity, as so clearly demonstrated by PC Palmer and others."