"I was deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the deaths and injuries caused by Hurricane Katrina, and the scale of the damage and destruction now becoming apparent across the southern states.

"My sympathy goes to you and the people of the United States, especially to the families of those who have lost their lives, to the injured and to all who have been affected by this terrible disaster.

Straw just noted that there were only a few Britons affected and the combine efforts of three consular offices would be available to help them.

Blair is on holiday in Barbados.
His deputy Prescott for Americans is in comprehensible.