Miliband condemns Pakistan bombing

At least 40 people were killed and 100 injured in the blast at the heavily-guarded Marriott Hotel in the capital Islamabad, days after new president Asif Ali Zardari was at 10 Downing Street for talks.

Mr Miliband said: "This latest bombing attack in Islamabad is yet another shocking and disgraceful attack without justification. Such an indiscriminate and brutal act of terror deserves the condemnation of the entire international community. My condolences and sympathies go out to those who have suffered as a result of this atrocity."

He continued: "We continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with Government of Pakistan against the violent extremists who have no answers but only offer death and mayhem.

"This horrific attack reinforces our shared determination to tackle violent extremism."

Conservative leader David Cameron, who recently visited Pakistan, said: "I utterly condemn the terrible attack on the Marriott Hotel in Islamabad.

"Like the attempt on the life of Prime Minister Gilani, which took place during my own visit to Islamabad earlier this month, this is an appalling reminder of the constant threat that terrorism poses to Pakistan, and to its return to democracy.

"It is no coincidence that this attack occurred on the day that President Zardari made his first speech to Pakistan's Parliament. (Saturday's) attack underlines why Britain and Pakistan must work together at every level to defeat terrorism, and to send a clear message to the terrorists that we will remain steadfast in the face of the threat from terrorism."

Four British citizens were injured in the bombing, the Foreign Office later confirmed. Two of the British citizens were children, who sustained superficial injuries and have since been discharged from hospital.

The two adults are remaining in hospital overnight for observation.