Word Watch

The UK was in the middle of the general electionIn the UK, when an election is held for all 650 members of the House of Commons. One must take place every five years. campaign at the time. Therefore, all eyes were on the leaders of the two main political parties. Both praised the actions of the emergency services, but responded in different ways.

Theresa MayThe prime minister of the UK between 2016 and 2019. Her attempts to secure a Brexit deal ultimately failed, resulting in her resignation., prime ministerA prime minister is the head of government in a country with a parliamentary system.  and leader of the Conservative PartyA British political party. Members are known as Tories., wants to toughen up laws in the UK for people who show they could be capable of a terrorist attack.

Jeremy CorbynA British politician who served as Leader of the Opposition and Leader of the Labour Party from 2015 to 2020., leader of the LabourBritain's main left-of-centre political party. Party, said the attack happened because Theresa May had reduced the number of police officers to save money. He said, "You cannot protect the public on the cheap."

Who was right?

"Corbyn of course!" say some. They think the fact that there are less police on the streets made it harder to predict the attack would happen. More police would mean more listening, watching and information gathering. They believe the country would be safer if more money were given to the police, and other groups who help to keep us all safe.

"You are wrong!" claim those who agree with Theresa May. They think we need to have tougher laws to detect and prevent terrorism and extremism and to punish any involvement with terrorism. They are not sure whether more police would have made it easier to predict or prevent the attack, but agree with the prime minister that "things need to change".

Borough Market: A popular part of London full of pubs, bars and restaurants.

Responded: Within eight minutes, the terrorists were dealt with. Police worked through the night to investigate what had happened and in the following days made many arrests.

Bravery and kindness: An off-duty policeman rugby tackled a terrorist, a Romanian baker threw crates at them. Londoners who lived in the area opened their homes to people stranded by the attack.

Campaign: When politicians are trying to persuade people old enough to vote to elect (choose) them or members of their party as MPs (Members of Parliament). The party with the most elected MPs forms the government which has the power to make decisions about running the country.

Toughen up laws: Theresa May has said she wants stronger powers to stop those who may encourage or commit terrorism.