REPRESENTATIVES from the Chinese community met opposition leader Michael Howard this week during his fact-finding mission' to Morecambe in the wake of the drowning disaster.
The Conservative leader visited the area to learn from senior detectives about their investigation into the deaths of 20 cockle-pickers in Morecambe Bay.
After a private meeting at Lancaster Police Station on Wednesday he went to the Central Methodist Church on Green Street, Morecambe, to speak to members of the Chinese and inter-faith communities.
Outside Lancaster Police Station, Mr Howard said: "The tragedy was obviously a terrible tragedy for those involved, their loved ones, their families and it was a deep shock for Morecambe, its communities and the whole country.
"It was first and foremost a deep tragedy but it also has wider policy implications.
"I'm here to try to learn about the background to what happened, about its causes and about how we can do all we can to make sure nothing like that ever happens again.
"I'm going to be listening to what those in charge of the investigation and to what local people have to say and to reflect on that."
He refused to answer questions from the media about the tragedy and immigration issues.
Chief Supt Wendy Walker, of Lancashire Police, welcomed his visit, saying: "It is important for the community that this tragedy is acknowledged. Anyone who wants to come and pay their respects is welcome."
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