Our country must stand firm in the face of terrorism

But we should not change our lives, unless security considerations genuinely demand it. Or unless it is to show respect for those who died, or to increase our respect for those alive.

Take the minor issue of party conferences. For the Liberal Democrats it was a difficult decision to go ahead with our conference. Delegates were sombre. The talk inevitably focused on the assault on America. Speeches were largely devoid of jokes.

Yet while the issue hung over proceedings, it did not dominate them. We had our usual business. We had to talk about our policies of peace - strengthening our economy, improving our health service, investing in schools, recruiting more police.

Of course we debated international developments too. Above all, the need for resolve as we co-operate in the search for justice for the victims of those atrocities.

But it was a balanced conference.

Likewise, while we must all get on with our lives in Kingston, we should also think of local people touched by these events. Who knew someone who died. Whose relative serves in our armed forces.

And Kingston's Muslim community. We all benefit so much from the contribution of our Muslim neighbours. I know many Muslims, who run businesses here, work in the NHS, teach at the University and much more. Just think how worried they must be now, if they have family or friends who happen to live in the countries where the targeted terrorists live.

So as we rightly stand shoulder to shoulder with our American friends we should also stand shoulder to shoulder with our Muslim friends. Islam did not commit those crimes. This is the time to do the exact reverse of what the terrorists wants. So let's show our respect for Islam and Kingston's Muslims.