asked the Minister of Overseas Development if she will take steps to assure the Government of Mauritius of the active British support and sympathy following the hurricane damage there; and if she will make a statement.

My right hon. Friend the Prime Minister has sent a message of sympathy to the Prime Minister of Mauritius, promising that we will do what we can to help.Personnel from the Royal naval communications station in Mauritius gave immediate assistance. Her Majesty's Government have made a contribution of £10,000 to the Mauritius Government's Cyclone Reconstruction Fund; and my Disaster Unit has despatched medical supplies to the value of £2,000. A Royal Navy frigate, accompanied by its auxiliary vessel, is due to arrive at the island today to assist further in relief work.When we have had fuller information from the Mauritius Government on their needs for longer-term rehabilitation I shall of course be prepared to consider whether we can help within our continuing programme of development aid.