Jim Murphy MP, Labour’s Shadow Secretary of State for International Development, commenting on Typhoon Haiyan, said:

“People across the UK will have seen the terrible impact of Typhoon Haiyan over the weekend, and our thoughts are with the people of the Philippines as they struggle to deal with the devastation it caused. It is now vital that the British government, working with the international community, does everything it can to ensure that the Philippines receive all the assistance and support they need as quickly and efficiently as possible, in order to help save and rebuild lives.

“Tens of thousands have lost loved ones, homes have been destroyed and basic services have been wiped out. Those affected need immediate humanitarian relief, but Labour also calls on the UK government and international community to provide a commitment to the country to help facilitate national recovery and development in the long-term.”