The Muslim Council of Britain expressed the widespread shock at the human, physical and economic disaster unfolding as a result of the mass-floods in Pakistan. The UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon has described this as "heart-wrenching".

The Secretary General of the MCB, Farooq Murad, said "Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the victims, and we pay condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives."

He added: "It is encouraging to see massive relief collection by British charities, including several Muslim relief organisations affiliated to the MCB. We also commend our government for being at the forefront to help the distressed people of Pakistan, and for taking the lead in appealing to the international community for action."

"The unfolding nature of the devastation and the short and long term risks to human life will be profound. We urge our mosques and communities throughout the UK to help raise relief funds during the congregational prayers in this blessed month of Ramadan."

Disasters Emergency Committee

[ENDS]

The Muslim Council of Britain is the UK's largest Muslim umbrella body with around 500 affiliated national, regional and local organisations, mosques, charities and schools.