LONDON — Foreign Office Minister Mark Simmonds flagged off the 14th Haj consular delegation accompanying British pilgrims Thursday. Mark Simmonds said: “We understand how deeply important the Haj is to the Muslim community and I have been taking a keen interest in preparations for the Haj Consular Delegation. We are absolutely committed to providing appropriate consular services to British pilgrims during Haj through having consular officers on the ground in Makkah and Jeddah. “Last year we provided a wide range of consular support, including replacing emergency travel documentation and assisting British pilgrims who required urgent medical assistance.” He acknowledged the excellent facilities and services provided by Saudi Arabian government to all pilgrims. He said, “Saudi Arabia provides excellent facilities and services to all pilgrims and I would like to thank the Kingdom for everything it does for British pilgrims on Haj.” Simmonds wished a peaceful, successful and rewarding pilgrimage to those undertaking Haj this year. “Effective preparations by pilgrims – such as ensuring they have appropriate travel insurance and carry copies of their passports and other important documentation – is the key to ensuring a safe and trouble-free Haj. I hope that all those undertaking Haj this year will have a peaceful, successful and rewarding pilgrimage,” he said. Approximately 25,000 British Muslims are performing Haj this year. A Foreign Office circular advised British pilgrims to visit the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) website for travel advice and 2012 Haj information leaflets. The UK Haj delegation will be located at the Elaf Kinda Hotel, Makkah. The FCO provides 24-hour telephone support for British pilgrims. The designated contact Saudi number is: 00966 (0) 501 128 731. — SG
