Bond response to the International Development Committee's (IDC) report: Effectiveness of UK aid: potential impact of FCO/DFID merger findings

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

“Today’s damning report calls into question not only the timing but the entire rationale of the Government’s decision to merge DFID and the FCO. We support the IDC’s call for the Government to urgently present a statement to Parliament setting out an evidence-led rationale for this costly decision, and to begin meaningful consultation with the aid and development sector.

We are facing the biggest health and humanitarian crisis of our lifetime which is set to push millions of people back into poverty. Now more than ever, UK aid must prioritise poverty reduction and respect existing UK laws and global rules that ensure aid is transparent and effective.

The government should commit to dedicated Cabinet and National Security Council representation for UK aid so we retain humanitarian and development expertise at the very top of decision making. This has been shown to be critical in the effectiveness of similar departments in Canada and the Netherlands. Finally, we urgently need a commitment to retain ICAI in its current form, and to establish a separate Official Development Assitance (ODA) Select Committee tasked with scrutinising all UK aid spending. This is the best way to ensure accountability and value for money for the British taxpayer.”

ENDS

Notes to editor

International Development Select Committee report: Effectiveness of UK aid: potential impact of FCO/DFID merger: https://publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm5801/cmselect/cmintdev/596/59602.htm
Bond is the UK network for organisations working in international development. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 400 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice.
For further information please contact Maryam Mohsin on 07555 336029 or [email protected]