Michael Gove has said that “now is not the right time to take a decision about the future of Grenfell Tower” in a letter to the survivors and bereaved from the tragedy.

The Housing Secretary was writing after recent meetings with these groups, in which he said he had been “deeply moved by the personal accounts, honesty and steadfast commitment to justice that this community has demonstrated unwaveringly”.

On the future of the Tower, Gove added: “Feedback has been that consultations to date have felt rushed and insufficient time was provided for everyone to provide their views. Out of respect for those who have not yet felt able to have their say, it is right that we give more time for this.

“To those who have already shared their views, questions and concerns, I am grateful. I can assure you that these views will still be taken into account and that there is no need for you to resubmit them, though you are welcome to do so.

“I have decided to continue the safety works in the tower in line with the engineering advice (published in May) to ensure its stability until a decision is made. This will allow more time for us to speak with, and to hear from, you about the future of the tower.

“I want the many different voices to be heard, and these conversations will help to determine when and how a decision is approached.”

You can read the full letter here.