Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, what support the UK has given to the people of (a) Sierra Leone and (b) Freetown after recent flooding.

Our deepest sympathies are with the people of Sierra Leone affected by the mudslide and flooding in and around Freetown. The UK was among the first to respond, with personnel at the scene within hours. We provided vital humanitarian assistance immediately, drawing on supplies already in place following the Ebola outbreak. We have allocated £5m to provide clean water and hygiene kits to prevent a cholera outbreak; essential health and psychosocial services; and food and clothing to those affected. We are helping families to re-establish their lives by finding alternative accommodation, and ensuring their children can return to school.