Security measures advised in wake of London attack

IMPACT – MEDIUM

An attack on the Westminster Bridge near the U.K. Parliament in London left at least five people dead, including the assailant, and dozens injured. The attack left parts of London on lockdown Wednesday. Authorities advised U.K. and foreign nationals to monitor their security.

Key points:

• U.K. Prime Minister Theresa May said business would resume as normal Thursday. “Tomorrow morning, parliament will meet as normal,” she said, adding “Londoners – and others from around the world who have come here to visit this great city – will get up and go about their day as normal.”
• The U.S. Embassy in London took the unusual step of “strongly” encouraging “U.S. citizens in the United Kingdom to directly contact concerned family members in the United States to advise them of your safety.” The embassy also advised U.S. nationals to “monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities.”
• The German Embassy released a statement that said German officials were “deeply shocked by the attack in London,” and the French Embassy advised people to “avoid the area, be vigilant and let family and friends know you are all right.”
• Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said: “We recommend you remain vigilant, monitor media reporting and follow the advice of local authorities. The level of advice has not changed. We continue to advise Australians to exercise normal safety precautions in the United Kingdom.”

BAL Analysis: U.K. and foreign nationals in or around London should exercise caution and expect the possibility of security-related delays when traveling in and around London.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

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