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UK public raises $565 mn for tsunami victims

March 23, 2005

The United Kingdom public raised as much as 300 million pounds (approximately US $5,655,90,000) for victims of the tsunami disaster, the British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw has said.

He informed the House of Commons on Tuesday that the public response to the disaster was "staggering" and said the British consular officials and police deployed to the tsunami affected areas since December 26 had done "superb work in difficult and traumatic circumstances".

Second tsunami possible, warn scientists

Straw said that with presidency of G-8 this year, the UK would be working with international and regional partners to develop "sustainable" ways to reduce people's vulnerability to the threat of future disasters.

The government's Chief Scientific Adviser, Sir David King, is leading a group of scientists and experts studying the risks presented by natural hazards and working on early-warning systems.

The heroes by the sea

Straw said the government has already taken action to help people in the region rebuilding their livelihoods through
debt relief and trade measures.

Straw said a memorial service for the victims would be held at St Paul's Cathedral in London on May 11. The Queen
and Prime Minister will attend the function.

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