The National Rifle Association America has released the following statement - its first since Friday's shootings that left 20 children and six women dead at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut:

"The National Rifle Association of America is made up of 4 million moms and dads, sons and daughters - and we were shocked, saddened and heartbroken by the news of the horrific and senseless murders in Newtown.

"Out of respect for the families, and as a matter of common decency, we have given time for mourning, prayer and a full investigation of the facts before commenting.

"The NRA is prepared to offer meaningful contributions to help make sure this never happens again.

"The NRA is planning to hold a major news conference in the Washington, D.C., area on Friday, December 21."