§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked Her Majesty's Government:
What assistance they have been able to give in relation to the tidal wave disaster that has befallen Papua New Guinea; and what is the latest information they have on the extent of the disaster and of Commonwealth and other international aid given for the relief of suffering in the disaster area. [HL2994]
§ Baroness AmosThe Department for International Development is in close contact with the Papua New Guinea authorities through the British High Commission in Port Moresby. In response to the initial appeal for assistance, we have offered up to £250,000 to meet the immediate relief and recovery needs of those affected by the tidal wave. Of this contribution, £75,000 has been allocated to the International Federation of the Red Cross to provide family rehabilitation kits containing basic household items, and materials to rebuild houses. A further £44,944 has been channelled through the UK Foundation for the South Pacific, a non-governmental organisation, for the provision of medical supplies and temporary shelters. We have asked other humanitarian organisations active in the region urgently to submit proposals for the remaining funds.
With regard to the extent of the disaster, and of Commonwealth and other international aid given. I will place the latest UN situation reports in the Library of the House.