Mosques honoured in Parliament for flood disaster donations (From Surrey Comet)

Mosques honoured in Parliament for flood disaster donations

1:56pm Saturday 11th February 2012 in Sutton By Martin George

Mosques that donated money to help Pakistan recover from the devastating 2010 floods have been honoured at a parliamentary reception.

The Pakistan Recovery Fund (PRF), founded by the Prince of Wales, asked mosques to donate some of their Friday collections.

Mosques in Kingston, Sutton and Epsom were among those to receive a bronze medal from the fund after taking part.

Local MPs from four parties attended the House of Commons reception on Thursday, February 9.

Epsom and Ewell MP Chris Grayling said: “I'm really pleased that the efforts of Epsom Mosque have been recognised in this way.

"This appeal has been enormously important, and I want to congratulate everyone in the mosque for their efforts.”

Sadiq Khan MP, the first cabinet member of Pakistan decent, said: “I travelled to some of the flood-affected areas and met dozens of victims who lost friends, family members and their livelihoods.

“I am extremely proud of the hope the British public gave to thousands of people through their generous donations.

“Many people feared that the tough economic climate would limit the amount donated to the Pakistan Recovery Fund, but we saw just the opposite – despite the difficult times the British public face at home, they haven’t lost their sense of humanity."

John O’Brien said: “On behalf of HRH The Prince of Wales I would like to extend my gratitude to the mosques who have come together to answer the prince’s call to action.

“Without the support of these communities we would be unable to raise awareness and build momentum for the Pakistan Recovery Fund.

“We are grateful for all the funds you have collected and for the future support you have pledged.

“We will ensure that your contribution goes to rebuilding the lives and homes of Pakistan’s flood victims.”