Sunak says no to extra earthquake relief cash

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has declined to commit to increasing the Government's £5m support for areas in Turkey and Syria devastated by earthquakes.

As public support for the relief effort reached over £65m, Mr Sunak insisted the Government had provided "lots of other support" and was ready to provide more.

But he would not commit to increasing the amount of match funding for the growing sum of donations to a public appeal set up in the wake of the disaster.

The Disasters Emergency Committee, anon-government organisation overseeing efforts by leading aid charities, has raised £65.8 mas of Monday-the fourth day of its public appeal.

The total includes the Government's current commitment towards aid.

Asked about whether the Government would increase its match funding for the relief effort, Mr Sun ak said :" It' s been amazing to see the response from the country to what is an unbelievable, devastating tragedy.

"That's why it's important that we do our bit and I' m grateful to everyone who' s given generously. The Government has matched £5m of those donations but we're also providing lots of other support directly to the authorities in the region ."

Mr Sunak said Britain has provided support including rescue workers, tents, blankets and hygiene equipment.

He added :" We' re also continually in touch with theauthorities and if they need more assistance we're ready to provide it."

The devastating earthquake hit parts of Turkey and Syria last week.

The UN has estimated the death toll may surpass 50,000 people.