Philip Webster, Times Political Editor, says that today's London terror attacks have left the British G8 delegation shell-shocked but determined to carry on while Tony Blair is absent from the summit:

"Things are carrying on. That was the whole point of Blair's statement, to show that they are not going to be knocked off course by terrorism.

"Blair chaired the morning meetings with G8 leaders and the heads of developing countries until about 1pm, when they finished, and the officials are now doing the communique on climate change, and that is fully expected in the next few hours.

"In fact, what happened with the bombings has probably added to the urgency to reach a deal. There is a long break in the G8 proceedings now, and when they resume Jack Straw will take the chair for the discussion on foreign affairs later this afternoon.

"But it is a strange atmosphere. People aren't really focusing on the important business of the summit, they are keeping more than an eye on what is happening in London. The delegations are sitting around looking rather shell-shocked, the British delegation in particular, as they come to terms with the fact that there has been an attempt to wreck the G8.

"We expect Blair back during the evening, when he will presumably meet the other leaders during dinner, and he will be chairing the meeting on Africa tomorrow morning.

"This morning the other G8 leaders looked very grim and sombre, knowing that it could just as well happen to them. It was a strong statement of unity.

"Blair himself looked shocked, obviously. He was trembling with emotion. In view of what's happened, that is not a surprise."

Explore UK News

• Crime News

• Education News

• Health News

• Scotland News

Times Recommends

• What makes the perfect mum?
• To keep me stress-free, no more awareness days, please
• What do lottery winners buy?