Region 's leaders condemn Washington violence

Business leaders in Greater Birmingham today condemned the scenes of violence in Washington overnight.

As Congress eventually certified Joe Biden 's election victory this morning, Paul Faulkner, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), which includes the Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce, said: “They were shocking and frightening scenes from Washington DC and they underline the importance of maintaining a dialogue with our business associates in the US.

“The loss of life is appalling but we must immediately work with our colleagues in the States to ensure that democracy wins the day.

“It 's historically shameful behaviour and the rhetoric from Trump in inciting this will be condemned globally by right-thinking people. ”

Mandy Haque, international director of the GBCC and vice president of the British American Business Council, said: “The shocking scenes from Washington overnight will appal all of those people on each side of the Atlantic who have worked tirelessly to promote good relationships between businesses.

“Through our Transatlantic Chamber we have built up meaningful links across the UK and US and the actions of Trump-supporting extremists will not damage all the work we have done. ”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson also condemned the "disgraceful scenes" in the US, after supporters of President Donald Trump stormed Congress and clashed with police.

Rioters breached the Capitol building, where lawmakers met to confirm Joe Biden's presidential election victory.

The PM said it was "vital that there should be a peaceful and orderly transfer of power".

And Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said it was a "direct attack on democracy".

"The United States stands for democracy around the world and it is now vital that there should be a peaceful and orderly transfer of power," Mr Johnson tweeted.

Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, meanwhile, called the events "utterly horrifying".