§ Miss Vickersasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations what help was offered by Great Britain to the Government of Pakistan to relieve distress caused by the recent cyclone in East Pakistan.
§ Mr. SandysHer Majesty's Government were grieved to learn of the heavy loss of life and widespread destruction caused by the cyclone which struck the Cox's Bazaar and Chittagong area of East Pakistan on 28th May. I am sure that the House will wish to join with me in expressing our sincere sympathy to the people of Pakistan.
As a practical sign of sympathy Her Majesty's Government have offered aid in kind to the value of £50,000. Following consultations with the Pakistan authorities £30,000 have been provided for the immediate purchase of medical supplies and clothing, and the balance is being 158W used to provide an emergency radio communications system for the affected area.
Parliament will be asked, in due course, to approve a Supplementary Estimate. In the meantime an advance has been made from the Civil Contingencies Fund.