§ Mr. Viggersasked the Secretary of State for Defence what assistance has been given to the Italian authorities by United Kingdom Service personnel for disaster relief following the Italian earthquake.
§ Mr. SpeedIn the aftermath of the tragic earthquake in Italy there was an immediate and spontaneous response from the British Service and civilian communities in Naples. Food, blankets and supplies of blood have been donated and an initial sum of 1,200,000 lire has been granted from local welfare funds. As the extent of the disaster became known, teams of British Service and civilian volunteers concentrated their efforts on the hard-hit areas of Solofra, Sorene and San Michele. Supplies including tents, blankets and medical stores were flown into Italy by the British Government and, in appalling weather, the volunteers have done everything possible to provide shelter and medical assistance, including helping to establish a medical reception centre for small children. I understand that their efforts have been very greatly appreciated.