Bond reacts to Ed Miliband’s appointment as Foreign Secretary

Following the appointment of Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary of the UK, Romilly Greenhill, CEO of Bond, the UK network for NGOs, said:

“Congratulations to Ed Miliband on his appointment as Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom.

“In recent years, successive governments have deprioritised development, slashing the UK aid budget and retreating from our international commitments, even as conflict, inequality and volatility increase worldwide. The new Foreign Secretary has the chance to halt this reversal, and recognise the crucial role of international development in driving progress towards a safer, healthier and more equal world.

To support the world’s most marginalised communities, and restore the UK’s credibility as a reliable partner on the global stage, the new Foreign Secretary should lay out a roadmap for returning UK aid spending back to 0.7% of GNI, as soon as fiscal circumstances allow. By using the UK’s upcoming G20 presidency to champion much-needed reforms to the global financial system – including tackling unjust debts, illicit financial flows and implementing fairer tax rules – Ed Miliband can also support low- and middle-income countries to invest in their own public services and lift communities out of poverty.

We look forward to working alongside Ed Miliband and other FCDO Ministers to rebuild the UK’s proud reputation on international development, and address global challenges of climate crisis, inequality, conflict, and humanitarian need.”

ENDS.

Notes to Editors:

1. Read Bond’s reaction to Andy Burnham MP’s appointment as Prime Minister of the UK here.
2. Bond unites and supports a diverse network of over 350 civil society organisations from across the UK, and allies to help eradicate global poverty, inequality and injustice.
3. For further information or interviews, please get in touch with Emily Loynes at [email protected] or 07909947850