British residents were killed, homes were destroyed and
infrastructure was decimated when Irma and Maria, two
of the most powerful hurricanes for decades, smashed
through the region back-to-back in September 2017.
visited Barbados,
Antigua and Montserrat this week to reassure locals
that the Ministry of Defence is supporting other
Government departments to ensure that similar
devastation is not repeated.
Armed Forces Minister said:
No matter what the elements throw at our Overseas
Territories this year, we will be there to help them
every step of the way throughout 2018 and beyond. We
may not be able to prevent natural disasters from
occurring, but our world-class military have been
planning meticulously to ensure lives are protected
and damage is kept to a minimum.
Our citizens in the Caribbean have already shown
incredible resilience over the last year and we are
determined that when this difficult period is over
their local facilities are in a better state than
they were before.
Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) Mounts Bay will act as the
hub of the UK’s response, and the minister was able to
see a demonstration of her amphibious capabilities
while in Montserrat
As well as being able to carry vital aid and equipment,
RFA Mounts Bay also has the latest Royal Navy Wildcat
helicopter on board to provide aerial support – this
will be the first time it has operated in the
Caribbean. There is also a medical facility on board,
with 10 patient beds for anyone who suffers serious
injuries or illness.
The visit also provided an opportunity for Mr Lancaster
to speak to island governors and residents about their
needs as they continue to recover from last year’s
hurricanes.
As well as preparing for this year, RFA Mounts Bay has
been in the region since Irma struck and will remain
there until 2020 to help restore the islands to normal.
The Government has already committed £142million to
support the recovery effort in the affected
territories, as well as £300million of UK loan
guarantees.
Foreign & Commonwealth Office minister is
currently visiting the British Virgin Islands, which
suffered extensive damage, as the Government continues
its preparations for 2018.