A U.K. parliamentary committee has launched a major inquiry into the future of the country’s international aid program after the government confirmed plans, first announced in February, to slash overseas development spending by 40% to help fund an increase in defense spending.
The review, led by lawmakers on the International Development Committee, or IDC, will explore how the U.K. can still deliver “high impact” aid as the budget falls from 0.5% to 0.3% of gross national income by 2027 — the lowest level since the mid-1990s.
“We are at a critical moment when it comes to the future of U.K. foreign aid,” said Member of Parliament Sarah Champion, who chairs the committee, when announcing the inquiry. “How do we ensure no one is left behind, particularly the most vulnerable including the extreme poor, women and girls and people with disabilities, whilst also meeting the government’s stated priorities?”
About the author
Susannah Birkwood
Susannah Birkwood is a U.K.-based freelance journalist and media and communications consultant who has worked for international organizations including WWF and Plan International.
