First Minister Nicola Sturgeon

“THIS is beyond awful. Innocent people being murdered as they worship is horrific and heartbreaking. My thoughts and solidarity are with New Zealand’s Muslim community and all of its people on this dark day.

“Today, at mosques across Scotland and elsewhere, Muslims will attend Friday prayers. They are a valued part of our diverse and multicultural society. It is terrorists who commit acts such as who offend our values as a society. We must stand against Islamophobia and all hate.”

Prime Minister Theresa May

“DEEPEST condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch.”

Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn

“ON behalf of the Labour Party, I laid a wreath at New Zealand House for the victims of the horrific terror attack in Christchurch.

“In their memory, we must build a world which respects our diversity.”

US President Donald Trump

“ANY assistance the U.S.A. can give, we stand by ready to help.”

Former President Barack Obama

“MICHELLE and I send our condolences to the people of New Zealand. We grieve with you and the Muslim community. All of us must stand against hatred in all its forms.”

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“ATTACKING people during prayers is absolutely appalling, and Canada strongly condemns today’s shootings in New Zealand.

“Our thoughts and hearts go out to the victims and their families, and we join New Zealanders and Muslim communities around the world in grieving.”

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan

“THE attack was the latest example of rising racism and Islamophobia [which has] rapidly started to take over Western communities like a cancer.”

Pakistan president Imran Khan

“I BLAME these increasing terror attacks on the current Islamophobia post-9/11 where Islam & 1.3 billion Muslims have collectively been blamed for any act of terror by a Muslim.”

Queen Elizabeth II

“PRINCE Philip and I send our condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives. At this tragic time, my thoughts and prayers are with all New Zealanders.”