IT is impossible to comprehend the scale of the destruction and tragedy left by the tidal waves which struck south Asia.

This is the world's biggest natural disaster of modern times.

Already it is estimated that 50,000 men, women and children have lost their lives. But the death toll may double as a result of the outbreaks of malaria and cholera which will follow in the devastated areas.

It is imperative, therefore, that help is brought to the areas as swiftly as possible.

The task of ensuring relief reaches those in need is immense. This is a humanitarian disaster which stretches to ten nations across thousands of miles. Disaster has struck in some of the world's most impoverished areas which are unable to recover from tragedy on their own.

There are signs that the international community is rising to the challenge.

Already the United Nations seems to have taken the pivotal role in co-ordinating the distribution of aid.

And it is vital that wealthy nations, like Britain, pledge their fullest support for UN efforts.

Also to be applauded is the same way in which the international aid charities have adopted a co-ordinated approach.

They have joined forces to make a united appeal for money to provide the clean water, food and shelter to ensure that the number of deaths in the disaster is kept to a minimum.

The people of south Asia will need our help and support for months and years to come, and we must not shirk from our responsibilities to them.