More than sixty per cent of Burmese households still lack access to clean drinking water, and millions are literally starving in the wake of Cyclone Nargis, Euro-MP Caroline Lucas told a fund-raising festival in Preston Park on Sunday (July 13).

Now the European Parliament has called on the UN Security Council to investigate whether the Burmese government has committed crimes against humanity by withholding international aid from survivors.

In a message of support to 'Burma Fest', which has been organised by Brighton members of the Burma Campaign UK, Dr Lucas said:

"Nearly two-and-a-half million Burmese were affected by Cyclone Nargis yet the Junta blocked international offers of help.

"At the time, the international community condemned the Burmese government's failure to allow international aid to reach those most in need - a cynical decision which undoubtedly led to a massive increase in the number of deaths caused by the cyclone.

"I have called on the International Criminal Court to begin proceeding against those most responsible, but humanitarian aid must be the number one priority: your efforts today are making a valuable contribution.

"By supporting the Mae Tao Clinic you can directly help save lives that are still very much at risk.

"This wonderful Burma Aid festival is also a timely reminder that Burmese people still lack the most basic of human rights, so I call on you to join the Green Party in ensuring that this remains high on the political agenda."

'Burma Fest' takes place between 1pm and 6pm on Sunday, July 13th at Preston Park, Brighton. The event will feature music, food, stalls and speakers - at least one from Burma.

Funds raised will go towards the Mae Tao Clinic on the Thai/Burma border, which is currently providing help to cyclone victims.

For more information please contact Ben on 07973 823358 or at ben@greenmeps.org.uk www.carolinelucasmep.org.uk

Ben Duncan
Sussex Media Officer to Caroline Lucas MEP
ben@greenmeps.org.uk