§ Mr. GrantTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development what further consideration she has given to the needs of the people of Montserrat following the recent volcanic eruptions. [8564]
§ Clare ShortImmediately following the volcanic activity two weeks ago, my department gave immediate approval for vital emergency work such as transport services, communications equipment and maintaining of fuel and food supplies and sanitation.
We have also been looking urgently at the best way of providing temporary shelter and upgrading health care for those displaced on Montserrat. I have now approved a further £6.5 million to help build emergency shelter for those left homeless. I also approved £450,000 for emergency repair work on the hospital at St. Johns.
At the same time we want to give the people of Montserrat real choices about their future; and will be undertaking a full consultation process within weeks.