POLICE chiefs in Greater Manchester have branded the Westminster terror attack “an assault on our way of life” but insisted that the “dreadful act will not divide us”.

Four people were killed yesterday in a terror attack in the heart of the capital.

The attacker, armed with two large knives, mowed down pedestrians with his car on Westminster Bridge, including schoolchildren, then rushed at the gates in front of the Houses of Parliament, stabbing the policeman, who was unarmed, before being shot dead by other officers.

The fatalities include the attacker, Pc Keith Palmer, who he stabbed, and a woman in her mid-40s and a man in his mid-50s, who were mown down as the terrorist sped across Westminster Bridge in his car.

Anti-terror police confirmed 29 people had been treated in hospital, with seven people in a critical condition.

Leaders in Greater Manchester condemned the Westminster attack, after PM Theresa May paid tribute to the “exceptional men and women” who responded to the “sick and depraved” act.

Greater Manchester’s Mayor and Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Lloyd said: “The terrorist attack in Westminster is not just an assault at the heart of our democracy, but an assault on our way of life, and on those values which make our nation great.

“Our police and security services risk their lives every day to protect us and keep us safe and free. Sadly, one of those brave public servants has lost his life in the line of duty. Our thoughts are with the officer’s family, friends and colleagues, and our promise is that his sacrifice will not be forgotten.

“We also think of the others who have been killed and wounded in this dreadful act of terrorism. An attack on them is an attack on us all, and it will not stand.

“Those who think they can use fear, hatred, intimidation and murder to divide us are simply wrong. As a nation we are stronger than them, and in the face of terror they will only make us stronger still, and more determined to work together to build a future of hope.

“I have spoken with the Chief Constable, and Greater Manchester Police is working hard to keep our communities safe and provide visible reassurance.”

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “I wish to extend the thoughts and sympathy of all at Greater Manchester Police to the families of the Metropolitan Officer and people murdered during the terrorist attack in London.

“Police officers recognise the risks to themselves in undertaking their role to protect fellow citizens. Despite the knowledge of the risk we face, it is absolutely shocking when an officer carrying out their public duty is murdered in this way.

“Greater Manchester Police are reviewing with immediate effect officer deployments across the region whilst we find out more about the attacks.”

He added: “Although I think it is important to stress that there is no specific intelligence suggesting an imminent threat to Greater Manchester, we will continue to review our deployments and take all possible steps to keep people safe.

"It is also incredibly important at times like this that communities come together and support each other. Should anyone have any concerns or see anything suspicious I would urge them to report it immediately."

MPs were returning to Parliament this morning in a show of defiance.

A large area around the Palace of Westminster, including Parliament Square and Westminster Bridge, remained cordoned off on Thursday morning but staff were able to access the building and return to work.

The House of Commons held a one minute's silence this morning before business in the chambers resumed.