SEVERE FLOODS IN THE UNITED KINGDOM

25 July 2007

A Message to
Her Majesty The Queen
from
His Excellency Major-General Michael Jeffery AC, CVO, MC (Retd)
Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia
Concerning Severe Floods in the United Kingdom

On behalf of the Government and people of Australia, I express my heartfelt concern at the news of the devastating floods that have occurred across various parts of the United Kingdom in recent days.

Along with Australians everywhere, Marlena and I have been following media reports of the floods and have been distressed to learn of the tragic loss of life and the extensive damage to property.

On behalf of all Australians I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of those who have died and commend the sterling work of the various emergency service personnel and others involved in rescuing and supporting those in need.

Our prayers and thoughts are with the various communities in Britain at this difficult time.

The Governor-General has now received a message from The Queen that her Majesty was most grateful to receive this message of sympathy which she will pass on to those affected and to the many people involved in the rescue and recovery work.