NORTH Thanet MP Roger Gale has welcomed the announcement that a memorial service is planned for the victims of the tsunami disaster and that the Queen will be present.

The MP, who was critical of the recent European three-minute silence as “gesture politics” said: “This occasion, to be attended by Her Majesty will, I am sure, be a wholly appropriate way of recognising and mourning those who have lost their lives and those others who have suffered bereavement.

“I hope and believe that the service, when held, will bring real comfort to those at present grieving and to those who may never have the opportunity to properly bury the dead that they have lost. "