Yvette Cooper MP, Labour’s Shadow Home Secretary, responding to the sentencing of the murderers of Lee Rigby, said:

“I welcome the sentences handed down today to the murderers of Drummer Lee Rigby. It is right that those who carried out this vile and sickening attack receive the most severe sentences.

“Our thoughts are with Drummer Lee Rigby’s family, friends and colleagues, who have shown such dignity throughout. It is also right that the judge paid tribute to those who showed such bravery by trying to help in the face of the appalling attack.

“The police and prosecution have worked hard to ensure that these murderers have been brought to justice and made to face the most serious punishment for their cowardly violence that aimed to cause terror in our communities. The decisions made in the Old Bailey today send a clear message to those who seek to divide communities with brutal acts of violence that they will fail.

“Our communities can and will stand together against extremism - and the perpetrators of these terrible crimes will feel the full force of the law.”

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