Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell has welcomed the UK’s support and help for survivors of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines.
The local MP said: “This was a disaster on an unprecedented scale. Millions of people have been displaced and some of the worst affected areas were completely cut off as a Typhoon three hundred miles wide swept through the region. All our thoughts are with people who have lost loved ones and it is quite clear that we must stand by the Philippines as the country gets back on its feet.”
He added: “The British Government has already pledged over £50 million, which makes us one of the most generous donors anywhere in the world. This includes matching the first £5 million donated to the Disasters Emergency Committee Appeal for the Philippines, ensuring leading charities have the resources they need to help victims of the typhoon and make the public’s generous donations go even further.
"But it’s practical action that’s needed as well. Not only are we getting water, shelter and medical supplies to thousands of people in desperate need but British equipment and personnel will help clear the roads so international humanitarian relief can get to where it needs to go. The UK government is also helping the international aid effort by sending military and civilian support to help speed up distribution in the Philippines."
These include planes, helicopters, naval ships, Land Rovers and JCBs, heavy lifting equipment, military medical staff, as well as a team of twelve volunteer NHS surgeons, doctors and paramedics who are expert at operating in emergency situations.
Mr Mundell added: “The British public have shown incredible generosity and compassion throughout this crisis. More than £35 million was donated to the DEC appeal in just a few days – and this in the same week that the British public donated more than £30 million to Children in Need.“