01 October 2009
Humanitarian experts from DFID are travelling to Indonesia tomorrow, Friday 2 October 2009, to assess the scale of the damage caused by the recent earthquake.
Working closely with the other international relief organisations and the Government, they will help organise the combined relief effort and asses what additional international support is needed.
The earthquake measured 7.6 on the Richter scale and struck 50km from Padang at 17:36 local time on 30 September 2009. The initial shock and the resultant aftershocks have caused widespread devastation in Western Sumatra.
Many buildings, including hospitals and schools have collapsed and thousands of civilians are still trapped in the rubble.
Douglas Alexander also announced that DFID will give £100,000 to Samoa. As part of the coordinated international aid effort to help the Samoan Red Cross Society (SRCS) address the immediate effects of the tsunami.
SRCS have mobilised over 100 volunteers to all evacuation areas to undertake registration and assess needs and they have have opened five temporary shelter sites, for those who have been affected by this emergency. Volunteers are also currently distributing clean water, first aid supplies, tarpaulins and other relief to those affected.
Douglas Alexander, International Development Secretary said:
"Today, when our television screens are filled with the horror of both a tsunami and an earthquake in the Pacific, this Government stands ready to act to support the people of Indonesia.
"Tomorrow our team of experts will travel to Indonesia to help plan the response to this catastrophe.
“In addition, we stand ready to assist with any further requests from the Government of Indonesia and are in regular contact with the Indonesian authorities, other donors and agencies in Jakarta to discuss their needs.
“We commend the efforts of the people and Government of Indonesia for their response in the aftermath of this tragic disaster."
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