§ Dr. TongeTo ask the Secretary of State for International Development if she will make a statement on the humanitarian situation in Orissa. [99237]
§ Mr. FoulkesThe cyclone that hit Orissa on 29 August has caused widespread damage and suffering. Millions of people have been affected by the cyclone and its aftermath. Alongside the Government of India's own efforts, we have committed over £2.5 million for immediate relief. Much of this has been channelled through five UK-based non-governmental organisations (CARE, Christian Aid, Save the Children, Oxfam and Help Age International), which are working through Indian partner agencies to help the most seriously affected families. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies has received funding to provide food, as have various United Nations agencies such as UNICEF. A team from our Department concluded an on-the-spot assessment to guide our decisions on targeting the most needy areas and supporting the most effective agencies.
In the coming months we shall be looking at re-starting our development aid programme in Orissa, alongside the major rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts that will be required.