LONDON: The British ambassador to Kuwait apologized on Thursday after his embassy staff urged British expatriates stuck in the emirate without money due to coronavirus to seek charity.
In a tweet, that was later deleted, the embassy called on British citizens to reach “friends, family or local charities in Kuwait, such as Bait Alzakat or the Salvation Army” for assistance if they “didn't have enough money.”
The tweet was sent as part of a question and answer session held by the embassy for British citizens concerned about the coronavirus.
British ambassador to Kuwait Michael Davenport later tweeted apologetically that he takes full responsibility for what he described as a “poorly phrased” post.
“Message to British Nationals in Kuwait: the British Embassy is fully operational and totally committed to providing support to British Nationals in Kuwait at this anxious and distressing time.”
2/2 I apologise for one of our tweets during today’s Q&A which was poorly phrased. I take responsibility for that. I encourage all British Nationals to contact us on social media or by calling 22594320 with any concerns. We will respond just as quickly as we can @ukinkuwait
— Michael Davenport (@DavenportKuwait) March 19, 2020
Some replied saying the UK should be able to provide financial assistance to its citizens due to the current situation.
"I really feel sorry for the British citizens a great disappointment for them," wrote one Twitter user.
"I’m really amazed by such a response! What is the rule of the embassy at such circumstances to help their citizens? Kuwait will never hesitate to help," another user wrote.
"The British embassy should not worry about the British brothers in Kuwait, they are in their country and we are at their service at any time," said a tweet by a Kuwaiti citizen.
Later, the embassy said it could not provide financial assistance to British nationals and always advised people to take out travel insurance.
In certain circumstances the embassy could issue UK nationals with an emergency loan.
Kuwait reported six new coronavirus cases on Thursday, bringing the total to 148.
Kuwait, along with Saudi Arabia, have suspended all international flights and closed most public spaces. Other Gulf states have restricted entry and movement.
