The UK's new Prime Minister Theresa May is reportedly being kept up-to-date on the situation in the southern French city of Nice after a truck ploughed into dozens of people celebrating Bastille Day last night (14 July).

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The incident has been described as a terrorist attack by French officials and local media has said at least 84 people have been killed, while a further 18 victims have been admitted to hospital in a critical condition, and one British national is known to have been injured. The vehicle apparently travelled two kilometres along the Promenade des Anglais as onlookers watched a firework display.

"Our thoughts are with all those affected by this terrible incident on what was a day of national celebration," a Number 10 spokesman said, according to the Press Association. Boris Johnson, the new foreign secretary, also issued a statement in reaction to the attack. He said: "[I'm] shocked and saddened by the appalling events in Nice, and the terrible loss of life."

May is travelling to Scotland today to meet with First Minister and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon. The move from the Conservative leader is designed to show her commitment for the union between England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales after the EU referendum result, which saw the UK back a Brexit but Scotland vote Remain.

Labour MP Owen Smith has cancelled the launch of his leadership challenge to Jeremy Corbyn planned for today, while the incumbent left-winger branded the attack as "shocking and horrific". Corbyn added: "My thoughts are with the victims and their families. Solidarity with emergency services and the people of Nice."

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We have offered support to the French authorities and are in close contact with them following the horrific attack in Nice. Our thoughts are with all those affected and we have staff in place who stand ready to help any British nationals."

What we know about the Nice attack so far

  • 84 people are reportedly dead after a lorry struck a crowd during Bastille Day celebrations in the southern French city of Nice.
  • There are 50 injured, including at least one Briton, with 10 in a critical condition.
  • The incident took place on the famous Promenade des Anglais during a firework display.
  • Images on social media showed people lying on the street.
  • The mayor of Nice and police have advised people to stay indoors.
  • The French president Francois Hollande said France has been "left in tears".
  • Hollande will chair an emergency security and defence meeting at 9am BST.
  • The date of the attack, France's national day of celebration, is seen as symbolic.
France Theresa May