Darfur victims aid appeal launched

New First Minister Alex Salmond has launched a cross-party appeal to relieve suffering in a conflict-ravaged part of Africa.
He urged the Scottish public to donate cash, saying it could save lives in the Darfur region of Sudan and neighbouring Chad.

Mr Salmond was joined by other party leaders at a photocall for the Disasters Emergency Committee in Scotland, to highlight the plight of those suffering there.

He said said: "Donations made in Scotland can save lives in Sudan and Chad, it's as simple as that."

The First Minister said there were 4.5 million people in Darfur and Chad - a total almost equivalent to the Scottish population - who were in need of daily assistance.

He added: "Our aid agencies are doing fantastic work in very difficult circumstances to help them, but they need our support. That is why I am calling on the Scottish public to make a donation today."

Mr Salmond made the appeal shortly after First Minister's Questions at the Scottish Parliament.

He was joined by Labour leader Jack McConnell, who said: "I fully support the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal and the important work
they do. The funds they receive will help people with vital services including shelter, clean water and sanitation, emergency food, water buckets, blankets and soap. I would urge others to support the appeal in whatever way they can."

And Liberal Democrat leader Nicol Stephen said: "This crisis has already gone on far too long and needs a political solution, but meantime people are facing a daily struggle just to survive. Just a small donation today can make a huge difference and save lives."

Tory leader Annabel Goldie also urged Scots to make a donation, saying: "You only have to see television coverage of Darfur to be profoundly affected by what is happening there. It may be thousands of miles away from Scotland but the people of Darfur and Chad need our support and they need it now. Please give generously.
source:http:www.midlothiantoday.co.uk