Statement from Bond in response to the Department for International Development (DFID) and the Foreign Commonwealth Office (FCO) merger story in the FT

Stephanie Draper, CEO of Bond the UK network for NGOs said:

“Any merger of the FCO and DFID could mean UK aid could no longer be about helping those suffering the consequences of climate change, and supporting people trying to survive war and disease. UK aid will instead become a façade for UK foreign policy, commercial interests and political objectives.

It’s incredibly sad that as we approach Christmas, a time to think about those less fortunate than us and a time when British people express their kindness and humanity, we are even considering dismantling something that is a true reflection of our global humanity and values.”

ENDS

Notes to Editor

1. Bond is the UK network for organisations working in international development. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 450 civil society organisations and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice.
2. For more information please contact Maryam Mohsin, [email protected] or 07555 336029