Mr Johnson joined other politicians and emergency service staff as they signed the book of condolence
The pair joined Essex Police’s Chief Constable BJ Harrington at Thurrock Council’s offices yesterday.
Flowers were also laid in Mulberry Memorial Gardens, located next to the offices, which has been established as a temporary location for floral tributes.
The gathering comes after the discovery of 39 bodies in a refrigerated trailer on Wednesday, 23 October.
Others who attended the signing include the Essex Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner, Roger Hirst, Thurrock MP, Jackie Doyle-Price and Leader of Thurrock Council, Rob Gledhill.
Chief Constable Harrington said: “Last week our county was shaken by this tragic event. Our thoughts continue to be with all those who have lost their lives, and also with their loved ones.
“I would like thank the emergency service workers and anyone who has come together to support this investigation in such difficult and traumatic circumstances.
“Thurrock Council has kindly opened the gardens for those who wish to pay their respects to the people who lost their lives last week.
“As we have said this will be a long and complex investigation. We will do everything we can to bring those responsible to justice and would ask for patience while we ensure the identification of those who have died is carried out with dignity.”
Members of the public are also able to share their sympathies in the book of condolence which will remain at Thurrock Civic Offices until 5pm on Friday, 8 November.
The lorry driver, Maurice Robinson appeared in court via video-link yesterday at Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court, charged with 39 counts of manslaughter, conspiracy to traffic people, conspiracy to assist unlawful immigration, and money laundering.
The 25-year-old from Northern Ireland has been remanded in custody until next month when he will appear at the Old Bailey for a further hearing.
The investigation is ongoing.
Tags: Purfleet, Grays, Thurrock, Lakeside, West Thurrock
