The child arrested in connection with the double stabbing at Kingsbury High School in my constituency of Brent East has now been charged with two counts of attempted murder and unlawfully and maliciously administering a noxious thing.
First and foremost, my thoughts remain with the three children who were injured in this horrifying and serious attack. I am relieved that they are all now in a stable condition, and I continue to keep them, their families, and the wider school community in my thoughts and prayers during this deeply distressing time.
I would like to place on record my sincere thanks to the police and all emergency services for their swift and professional response. Now that a charge has been made, it is vital that the police are given the time and space to carry out a full and thorough investigation.
If you haven’t done so already, I urge anyone with any information to call the police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
I remain in close contact with the police, the school, Brent Council, and other partners who are working together to support the families affected, the school and wider community.
At this time, it is essential that students, staff, and families are given the space and privacy they need to process what has happened. They are traumatised by these events and are being provided with appropriate care and mental health support. As a community, we must do everything we can to surround them with understanding, compassion and love.
I will remain in contact with the school and will be arranging a visit in due course when appropriate.