PM Transcripts

FOR PRESS PM No. 59/ 1971
RELIEF FOR EAST PAKISTAN REFUGEES IN INDIA
Statement-bythe Prime Minister, Mr. William McMahon
The Government has been following closely developments in
the regio-n of East Pakistan. Great distress has beer, caused by the fighting
there and by the resulting economic and social disruption. Large numbers
of people have crossed the border into India where they have claimed
refuge. This has caused a serious problem for India.
The Government has always had a deep concer-. n for the plight
of refugees and victims of emergencies. Similar humanitarian considerations
have influenced the Government in deciding to contribute to the international
relief effort which is being organised by the United Nations for East
Pakistani refugees in India.
The Government has decided to provide half a million dollars
in relief for the refugees. Emergency aid worth $ 239, 00 will be-provided
immediately. This will consist of $ 50, 0-30 in cash and the despatch by air to
the official Indian Government relief agency in Calcutta of vaccines,
medicines and materials to provide shelter from the mron;-soon which is
expected to break shortly.
The further $ 3010, 030 of supplies, to be made available
subsequently, will be shipped as soon as possible.
The Government has already been in touch with relief
organisations in Australia and will provide them with any iinformation
and advice received from international bodies and other authorities which
are concerned with the relief operation in India.
CANBERRA 27 May 1971