Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Government Response to Hurricane Melissa

11 December 2025 · Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Proposed by Chris Elmore Lab Bridgend

Foreign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • UK Government provided disaster relief support to Caribbean countries hit by Hurricane Melissa.
  • Financial assistance, emergency supplies, medical aid, and consular services were delivered to affected areas.
  • UK funding supported international organizations in delivering humanitarian assistance in Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti.

Issue summary

The statement addresses the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Caribbean countries, particularly focusing on Jamaica, Cuba, and Haiti, and outlines the UK's response efforts.

Action requested

The UK Government has provided disaster relief support through various channels including financial assistance, emergency supplies, medical aid, and consular services. It has also funded international organizations to deliver humanitarian assistance in affected areas.

Key facts

  • Nearly six million people throughout the Caribbean have been affected by Hurricane Melissa.
  • Jamaica reported 45 deaths with estimated damage of up to $8.8 billion (41% of GDP).
  • Haiti reports 43 deaths and approximately 250,000 people affected in Petit-Goâve alone.
  • Cuba suffered extensive infrastructure and agricultural damage.
  • The UK provided over £14 million in additional funding for emergency response.
  • HMS Trent supported debris clearance and repairs in Jamaica, Turks & Caicos.
  • Over 33,000 people were assisted with relief items from the UK.
  • UK's Emergency Medical Team saw 1,225 patients.
  • £850,000 was provided to UNICEF for water and sanitation services in Jamaica.
  • The UK contributed $4 million CERF allocation to support humanitarian efforts in Haiti and Cuba.
  • Over 2,000 British nationals received consular support in Jamaica.
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