§ Mr. Ogdenasked the Secretary of State. for Commonwealth Affairs if he is aware that 800 homes were destroyed in the Tasmanian fires and that the average cost of those homes was £4,000 and if he will increase British aid immediately.
§ Mr. George ThomasIn accordance with our normal policy following natural disasters in other countries, our contribution of £20,000 to the Tasmanian relief fund was intended to be applied to immediate first-aid relief. My right hon. Friend altered his Australian programme in order to make an immediate visit to Hobart on 19th February. He has now seen the devastated areas for himself and has discussed the immediate problems and needs with Tasmanian Ministers. In the light of these discussions he will no doubt be considering the matter further.
I understand that the Tasmanian Government have, in fact, announced that they will provide new homes free for those people left homeless by the bush fires near Hobart.