Queen's Speech: Our response on aid

CAFOD is very pleased that the Government intends to honour its promises to the world's poorest and most vulnerable people, even in these difficult economic times. Britain can be proud to have protected aid budgets at a time when so many other European countries have slashed them.

However, no legislation was introduced to spend 0.7 per cent of national income on aid in the Queen’s Speech.

In their manifestos, the Conservatives planned to introduce legislation to protect aid in the first session of a new parliament, and the Liberal Democrats also backed legislation. The commitment to spend 0.7 per cent of national income on aid has been made by rich countries for forty years – it now needs to be enshrined in law.

The world is at a critical juncture in efforts to alleviate poverty, with progress threatened by the global recession and the effects of climate change. The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) are a noble aim but will appear an empty global gesture unless rich countries like the UK remain committed to their aid promises.

Enshrining our aid promises in law would set a powerful example to other governments to fulfil their international commitments. It will ensure that those who have been worst affected by the financial crisis are not denied help when they need it most.

Relatively speaking, aid represents a tiny amount of money – less than one percent of the public purse. And yet it can help the poorest and most vulnerable people to transform their lives.

Britain can lead the world by securing our aid pledges in law. We urge the Government to set out a time-table for aid legislation at the earliest opportunity.

For more information: contact Nana Anto-Awuakye on 020 7095 5456 or 07799 477 541 or email nanto-awuakye@cafod.org.uk

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