§ 104. Commander Keransasked the Civil Lord of the Admiralty what were the main tasks undertaken by H.M. ships "Troubridge", "Londonderry" and "Vidal" in relief work in British Honduras.
§ Mr. C. Ian Orr-EwingThe Frigate H.M.S. "Troubridge" with 51 Army personnel, 4 civilians and approximately 25 tons of relief stores embarked, arrived Belize on 2nd November. She remained there for thirteen days, during which time her main tasks were to cater for the entire U.K. force ashore for a week, to act as sole communications link for Belize for four days, and for two days to act as Flight Information Centre controlling the airfield circuit. In addition, the 80 officers and men she landed daily rendered a variety of assistance in maintaining law and order, clearing up, burial of the dead, salvaging tugs, lighters, etc., rendering medical treatment, supplying drinking water and operating electricity generators.
The Frigate H.M.S. "Londonderry", which was at British Honduras from 7th to 12th November, brought 85 tons of relief stores and 10 doctors from Jamaica to Belize. Stan Creek and twelve other small villages, where she took part in resoration work and rendered medical assistance.
The Survey Ship H.M.S. "Vidal" arrived Belize on 15th November and is still in British Honduras. She brought more troops and stores, particularly temporary camp structures to accommodate 500 people near Stann Creek. Her main duty is to re-survey and re-mark the sea approaches to Belize, but, of course, she will continue to assist in general relief measures. In particular, her helicopter is useful for communications flights.
These efforts reflect the greatest credit on the entire ships' companies. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies has expressed his appreciation and this is being passed on the officers and men concerned.