Germany tops up aid to £400,000

Berlin - The German government topped up its emergency aid to Turkey to 1 million marks (£400,000), while France, Russia, Spain…

Berlin - The German government topped up its emergency aid to Turkey to 1 million marks (£400,000), while France, Russia, Spain, Switzerland and Sweden prepared to send rescue teams and sniffer dogs and Italy promised humanitarian aid.

A message of sympathy and support also came from Israel, which was reported to be sending three Hercules aircraft carrying 180 soldiers and medical supplies.

In Rome, Pope John Paul II led prayers for the Turkish people.