THE people of this area have responded with huge generosity to the Asian tsunami appeal.

I would like particularly to thank all those who gave money at Ex Libris bookshop in Bradford on Avon, where over £1,500 was collected and has been sent to Oxfam, who are primarily involved in providing desperately needed water and sanitation facilities.

This terrible disaster is a reminder that we really do all live in one inter-dependent world. The international aid effort is truly multinational with aid coming from poor and rich countries and individuals alike.

If climate change continues as is widely predicted many more people than were affected by this disaster will be forced from their livelihoods at the sea's edge. It is the responsibility of the whole world to take action.

Our government will be in a very strong position to influence international policies. Let us hope we can all make a commitment to play our part in Oxfam's Making Poverty History campaign.

H JONES

Bradford on Avon Oxfam Group