Today, I am updating the House on the UK Government’s response to the recent storms in south Asia and south-east Asia. These storms have caused devastating floods and landslides, killing thousands of people and displacing hundreds of thousands. They have destroyed homes, infrastructure and essential services affecting millions.
The UK has responded quickly to support those most affected. The UK has provided £3 million in bilateral support: £1 million each to the Philippines and Sri Lanka, and £800,000 to Vietnam. This funding is delivering lifesaving interventions and early recovery, including emergency shelter, clean water, sanitation and other essential relief items for around 160,000 people.
UK-backed global funds have also stepped in. The United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund has provided £4.5 million to the Philippines, £1.95 million to Vietnam, and £3.4 million to Sri Lanka. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies’ emergency fund has provided approximately £930,000 each to Indonesia, Philippines and Sri Lanka, and £570,000 million to Vietnam, and Start Ready has provided £1 million to non-governmental organisations in the Philippines.
In the countries with the greatest need, British embassies and high commissions are in regular contact with the local authorities, the UN and humanitarian agencies to ensure that our assistance reaches the areas of greatest need as quickly as possible.
Alongside our humanitarian response, our consular teams are working tirelessly to support British nationals affected by the devastating storms. Travel advice for British nationals is updated regularly to reflect the evolving situation.
We remain committed to working closely with the Governments in the region, as well as international partners, to ensure that our assistance reaches the people most in need and supports recovery efforts effectively.
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