Our worst fears have been confirmed. The explosion in Beirut has claimed the life of a member of staff from our Embassy in her apartment. All Federal Foreign Office employees are deeply saddened by the death of our colleague.

I have offered my heartfelt condolences to the family and the staff of the Embassy in Beirut, also on behalf of my colleagues and the Federal Government.

My thanks go to all those throughout the world who, like our departed colleague, put themselves at great personal risk every day in the service of our Country.