Monday, October 10 2005 10:01 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

London: British Prime Minister Tony Blair spoke to Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf and extended all possible assistance in relief and rescue efforts in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that hit South Asia.

Blair telephoned Musharraf last evening (Oct 09, 2005) to pledge his country's support in Pakistan's hour of crisis and shared concern at the massive loss of life and property in the disaster, a Downing Street spokesman said.

Britain, which has a large South Asian community, has offered an initial 100,000 pounds in aid and despatched a 60-strong rescue and relief team to Pakistan, where more than 25,000 people have been killed in Saturday's monster quake.

While Blair assured that Britain stood ready to provide more assistance, Musharraf was 'very appreciative' of the help the United Kingdom had provided so far, the spokesman said.

Meanwhile, a senior Blair administration official said that the United Kingdom has so far committed more than 500,000 pounds in relief funds to quake-hit South Asia, with a 'lot more' to come.

The initial spending included chartering a plane for rescue teams and helping pay for medical kits, Hilary Benn, International Development Secretary, said.

Two aircraft carrying relief supplies have already left for Pakistan and the government has pledged funds as they are needed, plus medics, staff and aid worker, Benn said.

He said stocks of blankets, tents and sleeping mats were ready to be despatched and would be passed on once the authorities there determine where they would be needed.