Blair Leads the Country's Tributes

The Prime Minister's Statement

"I feel like everyone else in this country today. I am utterly devastated "Our thoughts and prayers are with Princess Diana's family, particularly her two sons. Our heart goes out to them."

"We are today a nation in a state of shock, in mourning, in grief that is so deeply painful for us.

"She was a wonderful and a warm human being, although her own life was often sadly touched by tragedy. She touched the lives of so many others in Britain and throughout the world with joy and with comfort."

"She was a unique and very lively and attractive individual and so people will feel a personal sense of loss. She was a shining individual who will never be forgotten and I think that is how we should remember her."

"I am speechless with shock at the horror and sadness at this terrible tragedy. My thoughts and prayers go to her family."

"She was one of the icons of our age and will leave an imperishable memory in the minds of millions."

"A beacon of light has been extinguished. Her good works brought hope to so many of those in need." She added that above all "my thoughts are with her sons who have lost a truly wonderful mother".

"She had a real, tender desire to be what everybody expected her to be. I treasure the heartfelt and sincere letters she wrote."

"Diana seized the imagination of young and old alike. This beautiful woman was also a very vulnerable human being and out of that vulnerability and weakness, if you like, came lots of strength."