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UK International Development Strategy

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is developing a new five-year UK International Development Strategy centred on 'four essential shifts' in Official Development Assistance (ODA) programming and British International Investment (BII) strategy. Parliament is pressing the Government to provide clearer evidence bases, coherent theory of change, and transparency on expected impact and results across aid and development assistance.

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2026

39 events
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of proposed restructuring within the FCDO on staff based in East K

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of proposed restructuring within the FCDO on staff based in East Kilbride.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much and what proportion of planned spend figures on DevTracker (a) have been committed to and (b) are subject to r

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, how much and what proportion of planned spend figures on DevTracker (a) have been committed to and (b) are subject to reprofiling or cancellation.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether her Department has estimated the potential effect of future reductions to the ODA budget on (a) existing and (b

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether her Department has estimated the potential effect of future reductions to the ODA budget on (a) existing and (b) pipeline programmes in (i) Kenya and (ii) Jamaica.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, which bilateral programmes in a) Kenya and b) Jamaica are currently assessed as at risk of closure or early exit as a r

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, which bilateral programmes in a) Kenya and b) Jamaica are currently assessed as at risk of closure or early exit as a result of reductions in the aid …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to advance the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government commitment on taking action towards achie

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what steps she is taking to advance the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government commitment on taking action towards achieving access to quality eye care for all, including elim

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she plans to include eye health interventions in future UK international development and global health programm

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she plans to include eye health interventions in future UK international development and global health programmes.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has assessed the potential merits of advocating international action to reduce avoidable sight loss at the

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, whether she has assessed the potential merits of advocating international action to reduce avoidable sight loss at the Global Summit for Eye Health in November 2026.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what due diligence processes have been undertaken to assess the suitability of organisations in Malawi to receive UK fu

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what due diligence processes have been undertaken to assess the suitability of organisations in Malawi to receive UK funded aid.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what forms of accountability are in place to help ensure that UK aid to Malawi reaches its intended destination.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what forms of accountability are in place to help ensure that UK aid to Malawi reaches its intended destination.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
29 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her Department's policies of the increasing percentage o

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment she has made of the potential implications for her Department's policies of the increasing percentage of funding for the World Health Organization coming from

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Apr 2026 | Committee report linked

In the coming months we expect to see much greater transparency from the Government over the evidence base for its newly articulated approach to international relief and development and the tangible impact it expects this to have. We anticipate more information on how it intends to communicate both the approach and its results, and how the various components will be brought together to form a coherent policy. (Conclusion, Paragraph 24)

In the coming months we expect to see much greater transparency from the Government over the evidence base for its newly articulated approach to international relief and development and the tangible impact it expects this to have. We anticipate more …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Apr 2026 | Committee report linked

In its response to this report, we request the Government provides more detail on its approach in areas where this is sorely lacking, and clarify its own policy position. This will serve to reassure Parliament, the sector, and the public that the policy announcements made to date are part of a coherent approach to ODA programming and work as part of a clear theory of change. Specifically, the Government must: a. Outline the evidence base for the “four essential shifts” and how this will be us...

In its response to this report, we request the Government provides more detail on its approach in areas where this is sorely lacking, and clarify its own policy position. This will serve to reassure Parliament, the sector, and the public …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Apr 2026 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government considers Appendix 1 as a working policy document for its approach to aid and development. In its response, we request that the Government indicates where it agrees or disagrees with the Committee’s policy paper and why. (Recommendation, Paragraph 27) 15

We recommend that the Government considers Appendix 1 as a working policy document for its approach to aid and development. In its response, we request that the Government indicates where it agrees or disagrees with the Committee’s policy paper and …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the statement made on 10 April by the UNHCR Representative in Sudan, Marie-Helene Verney, that 14 million people are now displaced in

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the statement made on 10 April by the UNHCR Representative in Sudan, Marie-Helene Verney, that 14 million people are now displaced in Sudan.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
28 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what humanitarian support is being provided by her Department to Sudanese refugees currently based outside of Sudan.

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what humanitarian support is being provided by her Department to Sudanese refugees currently based outside of Sudan.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits Beirut, published on 16 April 2026, what steps his …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits Beirut, published on 16 April 2026, what discussions M

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits Beirut, published on 16 April 2026, what criteria his

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits Beirut, published on 16 April 2026, what steps are …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits Beirut, published on 16 April 2026, what mechanisms ar

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits Beirut, published on 16 April 2026, what safeguards ar

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled New UK Aid for displaced people in Lebanon as Minister visits Beirut, published on 16 April 2026, what assessment sh

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled UK boosts funding to local responders to help more than 1.8 m

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled UK boosts funding to local responders to help more than 1.8 million people in Sudan's humanitarian crisis, published

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
27 Apr 2026 | Written question Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled UK boosts funding to local responders to help more than 1.8 m

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to her Department’s press release entitled UK boosts funding to local responders to help more than 1.8 million people in Sudan's humanitarian crisis, published

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
24 Apr 2026 | Policy paper Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Independent Commission for Aid Impact's review of management of the Official Development Assistance spending target 2021 to 2025: UK government response

The UK government responded to the Independent Commission for Aid Impact's (ICAI) review of UK management of the Official Development Assistance (ODA) spending target 2021 to 2025.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ Independent Commission for Aid Impact's review …
5 Feb 2026 | Committee report linked

Upholding the rights of marginalised groups, as well as realising the potential of women and girls in both achieving societal resilience and poverty reduction, should be strategic priorities for UK ODA. This must be reflected in the spending allocations. (Conclusion, Paragraph 41)

Upholding the rights of marginalised groups, as well as realising the potential of women and girls in both achieving societal resilience and poverty reduction, should be strategic priorities for UK ODA. This must be reflected in the spending allocations. (Conclusion, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK

2025

14 events
17 Sep 2025 | Government response linked

There is a global displacement crisis. The UK cannot solve it alone, and nor should it be expected to. However, significant cuts to UK ODA and development programming indicate a United Kingdom that is stepping back from the world stage at a time when engagement and collaboration are most needed. (Conclusion, Paragraph 15) FCDO strategy

There is a global displacement crisis. The UK cannot solve it alone, and nor should it be expected to. However, significant cuts to UK ODA and development programming indicate a United Kingdom that is stepping back from the world stage …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
17 Sep 2025 | Government response linked

The Government appears to have devised a strategy for influencing multilateral institutions, most notably the World Bank. This is a welcome effort to reinvigorate UK engagement at the multilateral level, given the significant cuts to other parts of the UK ODA budget. (Conclusion, Paragraph 56) 34

The Government appears to have devised a strategy for influencing multilateral institutions, most notably the World Bank. This is a welcome effort to reinvigorate UK engagement at the multilateral level, given the significant cuts to other parts of the UK …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
17 Sep 2025 | Government response linked

Engagement with the World Bank’s fragility, conflict and violence strategy update is positive, but the Government should not assume that it can outsource to multilateral institutions the need to also formulate strategy on preventing and reducing displacement. (Conclusion, Paragraph 57)

Engagement with the World Bank’s fragility, conflict and violence strategy update is positive, but the Government should not assume that it can outsource to multilateral institutions the need to also formulate strategy on preventing and reducing displacement. (Conclusion, Paragraph 57) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
22 Jul 2025 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

0.7 per cent of GNI on ODA target 2024

UIN: HCWS888 My Noble Friend the Minister of State for International Development, Latin America and Caribbean (The Rt Hon Baroness Chapman of Darlington) has today made the following statement:The FCDO’s Annual Report & Accounts 2024-25, published today, reports t...

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
21 Jul 2025 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

0.7 per cent of GNI on ODA target 2024

UIN: HCWS874 My Noble Friend the Minister of State for International Development, Latin America and Caribbean (The Rt Hon Baroness Chapman of Darlington) has today made the following statement: This statement will be made at a later date.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
2 Jun 2025 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Africa Approach Consultation Summary

UIN: HCWS674 My noble friend the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Africa (Lord Collins of Highbury) has today made the following statement:Today, following the Foreign Secretary’s announcement of a five-month consultation in November last year, the Governmen...

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
2 Jun 2025 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Africa Approach Consultation Summary

UIN: HLWS673 Today, following the Foreign Secretary’s announcement of a five-month consultation in November last year, the Government is publishing a summary of our consultations.The summary reflects what we have heard in our discussions with partners in the UK, and …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
18 Mar 2025 | Committee report linked

Within the Zero Hunger delivery framework we recommend significant attention is paid to increasing local ownership across the breadth of FCDO programming that impacts on, or is impacted by, nutrition and food security: a. As part of the Zero Hunger strategic framework, the Government should set an ambition for the percentage of Zero Hunger related funding to be delivered by local organisations by 2028. b. Specific guidance on local ownership should support staff and partners in setting risk t...

Within the Zero Hunger delivery framework we recommend significant attention is paid to increasing local ownership across the breadth of FCDO programming that impacts on, or is impacted by, nutrition and food security: a. As part of the Zero Hunger …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK

2024

12 events
29 Jul 2024 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

0.7 per cent of GNI on ODA target 2023

UIN: HCWS39 The FCDO’s Annual Report and Accounts 2023-24, published today, reports that in 2023, on a provisional basis, the United Kingdom did not meet its target to spend the equivalent of 0.7 per cent of Gross National Income (GNI) …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓
29 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Should our successor Committee wish to explore the reform of the UK health data strategy, we recommend it considers: • Investigating the replication of the academic model of open and competitive funding to solve problems and develop Privacy Enhancing technologies (PETs) and other critical pieces of data infrastructure as an alternative to internal or contracted software development work; • Recommending a trial comprising an over-resourced, centralised SDE covering a smaller number of trusts t...

Should our successor Committee wish to explore the reform of the UK health data strategy, we recommend it considers: • Investigating the replication of the academic model of open and competitive funding to solve problems and develop Privacy Enhancing technologies …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
2 May 2024 | Committee report linked

If the Government’s transparency releases are to provide the public assurance they are designed to, timeliness is important. Yet with quarterly publication, the information may be several months old by the time it is released. We accept the Government’s case that a move to monthly publication is dependent on the implementation of the integrated transparency platform. The Government has said it will consider, though did not commit to, more frequent publication once the integrated transparency ...

If the Government’s transparency releases are to provide the public assurance they are designed to, timeliness is important. Yet with quarterly publication, the information may be several months old by the time it is released. We accept the Government’s case …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
1 Mar 2024 | Committee report linked

The UK Government must prioritise urgent discussions with the Israeli authorities to speed up security and improve the deconfliction systems so that aid workers can operate more safely. The UK Government should lead discussions with the international community to increase security for aid workers in the region.

The UK Government must prioritise urgent discussions with the Israeli authorities to speed up security and improve the deconfliction systems so that aid workers can operate more safely. The UK Government should lead discussions with the international community to increase …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Jan 2024 | Committee report linked

The FCDO’s approach papers on ending preventable deaths of mothers, babies and children by 2030 (EPD) and health systems strengthening (HSS) show a positive step in the right direction. However, in the absence of key targets for progress or regular updates, it has proved difficult to assess the effectiveness of the UK’s work in this area. The Committee welcomes the FCDO’s commitment to publish a future progress report on its EPD and HSS work in 2024, and to provide future updates on this work...

The FCDO’s approach papers on ending preventable deaths of mothers, babies and children by 2030 (EPD) and health systems strengthening (HSS) show a positive step in the right direction. However, in the absence of key targets for progress or regular …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Jan 2024 | Committee report linked

Female genital schistosomiasis is a painful and debilitating but treatable condition affecting up to 56 million women. FGS is best tackled through an integrated approach with wider SRHR programming, as well as with other areas of programming such as education, WASH and HIV and AIDS. The UK should integrate female genital schistosomiasis (FGS) care into its SRHR programming. This should include (a) improving access to adequate water, sanitation and hygiene facilities, (b) increasing girls’ enr...

Female genital schistosomiasis is a painful and debilitating but treatable condition affecting up to 56 million women. FGS is best tackled through an integrated approach with wider SRHR programming, as well as with other areas of programming such as education, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Jan 2024 | Committee report linked

The goal of ending AIDS cannot be reached without access to proper care and treatment for all people living with HIV, and action to bring down the large numbers of people newly acquiring HIV (1.3 million in 2022, far above the global target of 500,000 by 2025). More than 40 years after the first cases, the AIDS pandemic continues to pose a major barrier to global development, and COVID-19 has had a serious and significant impact on the ability of healthcare services to reach global targets on...

The goal of ending AIDS cannot be reached without access to proper care and treatment for all people living with HIV, and action to bring down the large numbers of people newly acquiring HIV (1.3 million in 2022, far above …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
25 Jan 2024 | Committee report linked

The FCDO should have a holistic and integrated approach to all of its sexual and reproductive healthcare programming to enable recipients to live a healthy life and reach their full potential. When funding sexual and reproductive healthcare, the UK should also consider investing in a ‘one-stop shop’ approach to SRHR which would help to ensure truly comprehensive sexual and reproductive healthcare and reduce barriers to accessing lifesaving HIV and SRHR services, such as travel costs, time, an...

The FCDO should have a holistic and integrated approach to all of its sexual and reproductive healthcare programming to enable recipients to live a healthy life and reach their full potential. When funding sexual and reproductive healthcare, the UK should …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
22 Jan 2024 | Policy paper Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International development in a contested world: ending extreme poverty and tackling climate change, a white paper on international development

This international development white paper sets out the UK’s plan to accelerate progress to eliminate extreme poverty, and address climate change and biodiversity loss.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ International development in a contested world:… (155pp)
+1 more
↓ International development in a contested world: ending extr…
4 Jan 2024 | Committee report linked

The Government’s consultation on proposals for Schedule 17 implementation ended in March 2022, but secondary legislation has not yet been brought forward and the Government has not yet committed to a date by which it can be expected. While we welcome the Secretary of State’s recent clarification of the initial commodities which are to be within scope, and the turnover threshold to which the Schedule 17 regime is to apply, many details of the proposed scheme remain unclear. We are concerned th...

The Government’s consultation on proposals for Schedule 17 implementation ended in March 2022, but secondary legislation has not yet been brought forward and the Government has not yet committed to a date by which it can be expected. While we …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK

2023

49 events
8 Dec 2023 | Committee report linked

Engaging with victims and building rapport and trust not only supports better outcomes for victims but can lead to a better evidence base and therefore to more successful prosecutions.

Engaging with victims and building rapport and trust not only supports better outcomes for victims but can lead to a better evidence base and therefore to more successful prosecutions. Type: conclusion | Number: 58 | Paragraph: 180 | Response status: …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
20 Nov 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Development White Paper

UIN: HCWS47 In 2015, the world gathered at the United Nations to agree the Sustainable Development Goals, a development framework for people, planet, prosperity, peace and partnership for development to 2030. Now at the mid-point of the SDGs, and in …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
20 Nov 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Development White Paper

UIN: HLWS46 My Right Honourable Friend the Minister of State for Development and Africa (Andrew Mitchell MP) has made the following written statement:In 2015, the world gathered at the United Nations to agree the Sustainable Development Goals, a development framework...

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

Under the current arm’s-length relationship, BII holds some investments that conflict with the UK Government’s policies, such as those relating to fossil fuels and there have been few attempts by BII to adapt its legacy investment portfolio to align with UK interests. The recent UK Government decision to expand BII’s remit to assist with the reconstruction of Ukraine demonstrates that the FCDO can intervene to steer BII’s investment activity, even where BII does not have necessary deep countr...

Under the current arm’s-length relationship, BII holds some investments that conflict with the UK Government’s policies, such as those relating to fossil fuels and there have been few attempts by BII to adapt its legacy investment portfolio to align with …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

The FCDO must work collaboratively with BII throughout its operations to deliver the International Development Strategy’s objective of supporting countries to grow thriving economies by 31 March 2024. It should do this at both country office and regional levels by sharing institutional knowledge and ensuring that BII’s investments complement the FCDO’s bilateral programme. This should be built into the single country plan of each country where BII operates: the plan should outline operational...

The FCDO must work collaboratively with BII throughout its operations to deliver the International Development Strategy’s objective of supporting countries to grow thriving economies by 31 March 2024. It should do this at both country office and regional levels by …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

We do not find BII’s approach to tracking gender lens achievements to be dynamic or suitably stretching to achieve greater development impact. Performance monitoring of key metrics to track other key indicators is also absent from BII’s strategy and public reporting.

We do not find BII’s approach to tracking gender lens achievements to be dynamic or suitably stretching to achieve greater development impact. Performance monitoring of key metrics to track other key indicators is also absent from BII’s strategy and public …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

The FCDO must incorporate SMART targets into its strategy documents that stretch the development impact that BII achieves, such as the number of quality jobs created through its gender lens investments. This must be done by March 2024 to achieve active governance over BII and to ensure that BII’s investments are achieving greater impact for the world’s poorest people. (Paragraph 37) 56 Investment for development: The UK’s strategy towards Development Finance Institutions

The FCDO must incorporate SMART targets into its strategy documents that stretch the development impact that BII achieves, such as the number of quality jobs created through its gender lens investments. This must be done by March 2024 to achieve …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

The FCDO should have more oversight of the regional split of BII’s funds. It should actively monitor the thematic and geographic split of BII investments and include this within its annual reporting of ODA expenditure. The profiling of BII investment activity should also reflect the FCDO’s priorities, and this should be guided by the FCDO setting geographic and thematic handrails. The geographic and thematic areas of BII expenditure should be reported alongside the FCDO’s annual programme exp...

The FCDO should have more oversight of the regional split of BII’s funds. It should actively monitor the thematic and geographic split of BII investments and include this within its annual reporting of ODA expenditure. The profiling of BII investment …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

BII should articulate the work it strives to do to promote gender equality and target under-represented groups through its investee businesses by setting its own proposal for impact. This should set out the categories of people that are being targeted, the impact that the investments are targeting and the target outcomes and key metrics that will be measured to show the change created from BII’s investments.

BII should articulate the work it strives to do to promote gender equality and target under-represented groups through its investee businesses by setting its own proposal for impact. This should set out the categories of people that are being targeted, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

A British Investment Partnerships strategy is urgently needed to drive effective co- ordination of actors within the BIPs and to ensure the International Development Strategy’s objective of delivering development in partnership achieves maximum impact. The FCDO must create this strategy, outlining its expectations of all parties involved in those partnerships, by 31 March 2024. The strategy must define inputs, outputs and outcomes measured by entity and progress against these metrics must be ...

A British Investment Partnerships strategy is urgently needed to drive effective co- ordination of actors within the BIPs and to ensure the International Development Strategy’s objective of delivering development in partnership achieves maximum impact. The FCDO must create this strategy, …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

Some of BII’s investments in middle-income countries have been poorly targeted and do not appear to be reaching the poorest and most marginalised people. In some cases, BII investments have tenuous links to development impact. By concentrating its investments in middle-income countries, there is a risk that BII will lose its development focus and prioritise financial returns.

Some of BII’s investments in middle-income countries have been poorly targeted and do not appear to be reaching the poorest and most marginalised people. In some cases, BII investments have tenuous links to development impact. By concentrating its investments in …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

BII must better distribute its investment across countries with different development needs and income status by capping the proportion of investments that it holds in middle-income countries, at a percentage determined by the Minister for Development, by 31 March 2025. The rate should be defined within BII’s investment policy and frequently monitored through BII’s published reporting.

BII must better distribute its investment across countries with different development needs and income status by capping the proportion of investments that it holds in middle-income countries, at a percentage determined by the Minister for Development, by 31 March 2025. …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

To ensure that poverty reduction is central to BII’s investment decisions, BII must pursue investments that demonstrate a clearer focus on driving inclusive economic growth and reducing financial and social inequality.

To ensure that poverty reduction is central to BII’s investment decisions, BII must pursue investments that demonstrate a clearer focus on driving inclusive economic growth and reducing financial and social inequality. Type: conclusion | Number: 12 | Paragraph: 60 | …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

In some instances BII has not demonstrated the additionality of its investments and is consequently competing with and crowding out commercial investors.

In some instances BII has not demonstrated the additionality of its investments and is consequently competing with and crowding out commercial investors. Type: conclusion | Number: 13 | Paragraph: 65 | Response status: not_accepted Government response: Partially Accept The Government …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

BII must target nascent markets that struggle to stimulate investment from the private sector. BII must annually assess the value it adds to investee companies. Where BII has not proven its additionality to an investment or its case for additionality is no longer valid, BII should exit that investment. (Paragraph 66) Investment for development: The UK’s strategy towards Development Finance Institutions 57

BII must target nascent markets that struggle to stimulate investment from the private sector. BII must annually assess the value it adds to investee companies. Where BII has not proven its additionality to an investment or its case for additionality …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

Financial intermediaries can deliver market expertise, but such investment vehicles can result in UK taxpayers’ money being used to reward intermediary agents in low- tax jurisdictions. In some cases, the onward investments made by intermediaries have rewarded businesses with weak or questionable links to development.

Financial intermediaries can deliver market expertise, but such investment vehicles can result in UK taxpayers’ money being used to reward intermediary agents in low- tax jurisdictions. In some cases, the onward investments made by intermediaries have rewarded businesses with weak …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

To ensure that poverty reduction is central to BII’s investment decisions and to prioritise investments that are critical to recipient countries’ development needs, BII must: (a) take responsibility for where its money is invested by exerting greater oversight and control over the activities of financial intermediaries who invest UK taxpayers’ money. (b) ensure that its investments reduce inequality by targeting investments that generate tax receipts in the country of operation rather than ch...

To ensure that poverty reduction is central to BII’s investment decisions and to prioritise investments that are critical to recipient countries’ development needs, BII must: (a) take responsibility for where its money is invested by exerting greater oversight and control …

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15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

The FCDO must hold BII accountable for its due diligence and ongoing monitoring of its direct and indirect investments. To that end, FCDO must audit BII’s investment portfolio over a rolling five-year period against a set of environmental, social and governance (ESG) and development impact standards to validate BII’s internal assessments. (Paragraph 95) Accountability and Transparency

The FCDO must hold BII accountable for its due diligence and ongoing monitoring of its direct and indirect investments. To that end, FCDO must audit BII’s investment portfolio over a rolling five-year period against a set of environmental, social and …

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15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

BII must ensure that its entire portfolio is aligned with the UK Government’s development agenda. With a diminished ODA budget there is more pressure to target development assistance towards the poorest and most marginalised groups: consequently, there is a greater responsibility for BII to actively manage its portfolio. It should place a greater emphasis on the impact delivered with the money it controls.

BII must ensure that its entire portfolio is aligned with the UK Government’s development agenda. With a diminished ODA budget there is more pressure to target development assistance towards the poorest and most marginalised groups: consequently, there is a greater …

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15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

To deliver accountability and transparency and to operate in lockstep with the International Development Strategy, BII must assess the impact of its portfolio under previous strategy periods and actively manage its portfolio. BII must perform annual assessments of the impact delivered by all of its portfolio investments, including those businesses that are invested in through financial intermediaries. BII must divest from those investments that do not have a clear development objective and do...

To deliver accountability and transparency and to operate in lockstep with the International Development Strategy, BII must assess the impact of its portfolio under previous strategy periods and actively manage its portfolio. BII must perform annual assessments of the impact …

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15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

BII needs to work towards greater transparency of its investment data. As BII has stewardship over taxpayers’ money, there is greater responsibility to ensure propriety over its investments by annually publishing performance data. We welcome BII’s steps towards improving its transparency by creating a new role for a Transparency and Disclosures Officer. We note however that there is scope for considerable improvement in BII becoming a more transparent institution.

BII needs to work towards greater transparency of its investment data. As BII has stewardship over taxpayers’ money, there is greater responsibility to ensure propriety over its investments by annually publishing performance data. We welcome BII’s steps towards improving its …

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15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

BII must prioritise the monitoring and reporting of investment activity and transparently report its financial and impact data. This should include, but not be limited to: (a) the number and type of jobs created, (b) types and value of capital mobilised, (c) the 2X Challenge assessment of its portfolio according to the five 2X Challenge criteria, (d) how the 2X classification has improved an investee company above employment levels currently found in the market for a given country. BII must a...

BII must prioritise the monitoring and reporting of investment activity and transparently report its financial and impact data. This should include, but not be limited to: (a) the number and type of jobs created, (b) types and value of capital …

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15 Sep 2023 | Committee report linked

BII should use Publish What You Fund’s DFI Transparency Index as a roadmap to increase the transparency of its operations and public disclosures. (Paragraph 117) Investment for development: The UK’s strategy towards Development Finance Institutions 59

BII should use Publish What You Fund’s DFI Transparency Index as a roadmap to increase the transparency of its operations and public disclosures. (Paragraph 117) Investment for development: The UK’s strategy towards Development Finance Institutions 59 Type: conclusion | Number: …

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30 Aug 2023 | Committee report linked

We welcome the acceptance in the Refresh of our recommendation that the Government work away from the word “tilt” to describe its policy towards the Indo-Pacific while continuing to prioritise the region. We also welcome the list of additional actions the Government proposes to take to implement its newly-described policy of making the 66 Tilting horizons: the Integrated Review and the Indo-Pacific Indo-Pacific region a permanent pillar of UK foreign policy. We recommend that these initiative...

We welcome the acceptance in the Refresh of our recommendation that the Government work away from the word “tilt” to describe its policy towards the Indo-Pacific while continuing to prioritise the region. We also welcome the list of additional actions …

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30 Aug 2023 | Committee report linked

[In the Refresh the Government states that it will double funding to build China capabilities across government to better understand China and allow the UK to engage confidently where it is in our interests to do so.] This is a welcome development, but no detail has been provided.

[In the Refresh the Government states that it will double funding to build China capabilities across government to better understand China and allow the UK to engage confidently where it is in our interests to do so.] This is a …

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30 Aug 2023 | Committee report linked

We welcome the Government’s China policy statement in general terms in the Refresh. However, this policy now needs to be fleshed out so that practitioners such as academics and businesspeople can be fully aware of the limits within which they can operate with and in China. The FCDO should explain the rationale and method by which it intends to separate issues over which there is contention with China from those on which it seeks close cooperation with China, especially in areas such as trade ...

We welcome the Government’s China policy statement in general terms in the Refresh. However, this policy now needs to be fleshed out so that practitioners such as academics and businesspeople can be fully aware of the limits within which they …

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30 Aug 2023 | Committee report linked

In the absence of a publicly available, and practical, strategy for business, academia, civil society and others to adhere to, it is vital that the Government updates existing legislation and guidance in an urgent and clear manner so that organisations can understand the parameters within which they should be operating. The Procurement Bill was a good example of important legislation to give businesses a clear steer on what the Government perceives as acceptable and unacceptable procurement p...

In the absence of a publicly available, and practical, strategy for business, academia, civil society and others to adhere to, it is vital that the Government updates existing legislation and guidance in an urgent and clear manner so that organisations …

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30 Aug 2023 | Committee report linked

Official Development Assistance (ODA) in the region should be targeted on regulatory improvement to strengthen the rule of law and build an effective business environment to encourage both domestic and inward investment. Progress on this should be measured by establishing a model composed of indicators based on World Bank and OECD business-friendliness criteria against which each country can be assessed annually. (Paragraph 139) Countries Taiwan

Official Development Assistance (ODA) in the region should be targeted on regulatory improvement to strengthen the rule of law and build an effective business environment to encourage both domestic and inward investment. Progress on this should be measured by establishing …

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26 Jul 2023 | Committee report linked

The Government should revive its previous commitment to channel 50% of Official Development Assistance to fragile and conflict-affected countries and regions. The Government should also revive its 2019 manifesto commitment to spending 0.7% of the UK’s Gross National Income on Official Development Assistance at the earliest opportunity, in light of refugee and asylum pressure in multiple countries.

The Government should revive its previous commitment to channel 50% of Official Development Assistance to fragile and conflict-affected countries and regions. The Government should also revive its 2019 manifesto commitment to spending 0.7% of the UK’s Gross National Income on …

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18 Jul 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Development White Paper

UIN: HCWS969 The Government will publish an International Development White Paper later this year. It will set out how the UK will lead the charge against extreme poverty and climate change in a changing world. Yesterday, I updated the House …

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18 Jul 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Development White Paper

UIN: HLWS956 My Rt hon. Friend the Minister of State for Development and Africa (Andrew Mitchell MP) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement:The Government will publish an International Development White Paper later this year. It will set out how …

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17 Jul 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

0.7 per cent of GNI on ODA target 2022

UIN: HLWS945 My Rt hon. Friend the Minister of State for Development and Africa (Andrew Mitchell MP) has made the following Written Ministerial Statement.The Government took the difficult decision to reduce temporarily the Official Development Assistance (ODA) budget ...

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26 May 2023 | Committee report linked

The UK Government should use the Forum to discuss with the international community what lessons have been learned from current protracted crises. It should advocate for a global strategy that can be extended over the short-, medium- and long- term, to provide predicable support for refugee host countries and embeds a commitment to find diplomatic solutions to address the underlying causes of the crisis UK aid for refugee host countries 23 from the start. The strategy should set out how the in...

The UK Government should use the Forum to discuss with the international community what lessons have been learned from current protracted crises. It should advocate for a global strategy that can be extended over the short-, medium- and long- term, …

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22 May 2023 | Policy paper Department of Health and Social Care Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Global Health Framework: working together towards a healthier world

This framework for 2023 to 2025 sets out how the UK government will play a leading role in improving health globally and building resilience to future threats.

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↓ Global Health Framework: working together towards a healthi… (20pp)
17 May 2023 | Committee report linked

In 2020, the NAO reported that to reduce the likelihood of previous decisions being reopened, decisions should be based on the best available evidence, be transparent and make clear the cost and timing implications of alternatives.67 We challenged the witnesses on the extent and depth of information that would be available for Parliament decide on which strategic option to take forward at the end of 2023. They recognised how parliamentarians may find it hard to make early strategic decisions ...

In 2020, the NAO reported that to reduce the likelihood of previous decisions being reopened, decisions should be based on the best available evidence, be transparent and make clear the cost and timing implications of alternatives.67 We challenged the witnesses …

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4 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

We recommend that in the next six months the Government learns lessons from the extending of Diplomatic Protection to Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and draws up clear guidelines on situations where diplomatic protection could be considered and how it might be employed. If this mechanism is to be used again, we recommend that the Government outlines to the family and this Committee from the outset the rationale for its use and means of enforcement.

We recommend that in the next six months the Government learns lessons from the extending of Diplomatic Protection to Nazanin Zaghari-Ratcliffe and draws up clear guidelines on situations where diplomatic protection could be considered and how it might be employed. …

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22 Mar 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

The UK's International Technology Strategy

UIN: HCWS660 This is a joint statement with the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology.Today we have laid before the House the UK’s International Technology Strategy. Technological advances bring huge opportunities for our economies and societies an...

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22 Mar 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

The UK's International Technology Strategy

UIN: HLWS647 My Right Honourable Friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (James Cleverly), has made the following Written Ministerial Statement:This is a joint statement with the Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and T...

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22 Mar 2023 | Policy paper Department for Science, Innovation and Technology Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

UK International Technology Strategy

The UK's International Technology Strategy sets out our approach to making the UK a science and technology superpower by 2030.

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↓ The UK's International Technology Strategy (60pp) ↓ The UK's International Technology Strategy: correction slip… (1pp)
8 Mar 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Women & Girls Strategy (2023-2030)

UIN: HCWS614 The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is today publishing a new International Women and Girls Strategy (2023-2030).Launching on International Women’s Day, the new Strategy aims to tackle increasing threats to gender equality from climate...

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8 Mar 2023 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Women & Girls Strategy (2023-2030)

UIN: HLWS603 My Right Honourable Friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (James Cleverly), has made the following Written Ministerial Statement:The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) is today publishing a new I...

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2022

71 events
13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

The effects of COVID-19, climate change and conflict are undermining decades of progress on eliminating extreme poverty. Extreme poverty drives conflict, displacement and migration. Eliminating extreme poverty is fundamental to everyone’s security and prosperity. (Paragraph 23) Effective interventions

The effects of COVID-19, climate change and conflict are undermining decades of progress on eliminating extreme poverty. Extreme poverty drives conflict, displacement and migration. Eliminating extreme poverty is fundamental to everyone’s security and prosperity. (Paragraph 23) Effective interventio

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

We welcome the FCDO’s position papers on health systems strengthening for global health security and universal health coverage, and ending preventable deaths of mothers, babies and children by 2030. We recommend the Government builds on these, and the disability inclusion and rights strategy, and develops a coherent cross- departmental Global Health Strategy, with clearly defined targets and delivery plans, within six months. We repeat our previous call for this to set out how the UK intends ...

We welcome the FCDO’s position papers on health systems strengthening for global health security and universal health coverage, and ending preventable deaths of mothers, babies and children by 2030. We recommend the Government builds on these, and the disability inclusion …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

Nutrition is a keystone investment. It builds resilience in health, improves education outcomes and strengthens the economy through labour market participation. Moreover, investing in it represents very real value for money

Nutrition is a keystone investment. It builds resilience in health, improves education outcomes and strengthens the economy through labour market participation. Moreover, investing in it represents very real value for money Type: conclusion | Number: 4 | Paragraph: 34 | …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

In summary, by weaving a tapestry of the most critical interventions, including cash, capacity-building and financial inclusion, graduation programmes have a transformative and long-term impact on the poorest households, which reap sustained economic and social benefits that far outweigh the cost of initial investment. This methodology originated from a DFID-funded programme in Bangladesh and can play an important role in addressing extreme poverty in other countries.

In summary, by weaving a tapestry of the most critical interventions, including cash, capacity-building and financial inclusion, graduation programmes have a transformative and long-term impact on the poorest households, which reap sustained economic and social benefits that far outweigh the …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

In the current global climate, the need to ‘put the last first’ is perhaps even greater than it was at the gavelling of the Sustainable Development Goals. The UK Government can help catalyse global action, reinstate UK leadership, and ensure coherence with domestic strategy, by creating a deliberate and dedicated Leave no one behind portfolio within FCDO, to put the furthest behind first. Such a commitment would be a timely, and impactful announcement at the UN High-Level Political Forum on S...

In the current global climate, the need to ‘put the last first’ is perhaps even greater than it was at the gavelling of the Sustainable Development Goals. The UK Government can help catalyse global action, reinstate UK leadership, and ensure …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

We welcome the Government’s decision to appoint a Minister for Development who will attend Cabinet. We also welcome the response to our letter that the Government is still committed to the ‘Leave no one behind’ pledge, but we were disappointed by the lack of explicit mention of that pledge in the recent International Development Strategy. The then Foreign Secretary argued that such an explicit reference was unnecessary, but we disagree; words matter. The UK has historically been a global lead...

We welcome the Government’s decision to appoint a Minister for Development who will attend Cabinet. We also welcome the response to our letter that the Government is still committed to the ‘Leave no one behind’ pledge, but we were disappointed …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

Classifying all spending in low-and-middle-income countries as ODA may meet the letter of OECD rules, but it contravenes their spirit. Programmes that may contribute to foreign policy objectives, but that do not have a measurable effect on poverty, should not be classified as ODA spending.

Classifying all spending in low-and-middle-income countries as ODA may meet the letter of OECD rules, but it contravenes their spirit. Programmes that may contribute to foreign policy objectives, but that do not have a measurable effect on poverty, should not …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

Trade and investment are proven means of reducing poverty, but the Government cannot rely on “trickle-down development”. Policies based on trade and investment must include the world’s poorest people. As the Government increases ODA spending through development finance, it is vital that such spending targets the poorest and is not just invested in middle-income countries where returns may be higher. The BII Impact Framework should be updated to include scoring based on the new World Bank defi...

Trade and investment are proven means of reducing poverty, but the Government cannot rely on “trickle-down development”. Policies based on trade and investment must include the world’s poorest people. As the Government increases ODA spending through development finance, it is …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

The FCDO must work with the Department for International Trade to ensure that trade policy is predicated on creating inclusive, sustainable growth and supporting economic diversification, particularly in countries facing food insecurity and/or climate threats.

The FCDO must work with the Department for International Trade to ensure that trade policy is predicated on creating inclusive, sustainable growth and supporting economic diversification, particularly in countries facing food insecurity and/or climate threats. Type: conclusion | Number: 19 …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

Throughout this inquiry, we heard how budget reductions had affected programmes tackling poverty. The Government has stated that it knows what works in addressing extreme poverty, but it has not consistently demonstrated that insight in its funding decisions. We recommend: Ȥ The FCDO must ensure that its focus on trade and investment, and the rising costs associated with Ukraine and Afghanistan, do not lead to further decreases in funding for poverty reduction programmes, such as health, nutr...

Throughout this inquiry, we heard how budget reductions had affected programmes tackling poverty. The Government has stated that it knows what works in addressing extreme poverty, but it has not consistently demonstrated that insight in its funding decisions. We recommend: …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

The 2022 Aid Transparency Index noted the FCDO’s deterioration in transparency compared with DFID’s performance in 2020, in part due to “inconsistent publication of results, evaluations and objectives.” The FCDO failed to publish detailed budgets in its Annual Report and Accounts 2022, which meant that we were unable to scrutinise its spending plans. We understand that allocations are subject to change, but the Department must set out provisional budgets in its annual report. Furthermore, the...

The 2022 Aid Transparency Index noted the FCDO’s deterioration in transparency compared with DFID’s performance in 2020, in part due to “inconsistent publication of results, evaluations and objectives.” The FCDO failed to publish detailed budgets in its Annual Report and …

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13 Dec 2022 | Committee report linked

It has only been three years since the last Voluntary National Review. However, a great deal has changed in this time both domestically and internationally. To maintain its reputation as a global leader in development, the Government must commit to completing a Voluntary National Review of progress on the SDGs. Strategically, given the stand-out importance of the forthcoming SDG Summit in 2023, the last opportunity for Heads of State to collectively assess and look to accelerate progress befo...

It has only been three years since the last Voluntary National Review. However, a great deal has changed in this time both domestically and internationally. To maintain its reputation as a global leader in development, the Government must commit to …

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22 Nov 2022 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

FCDO Update

UIN: HCWS379 As set out in the Autumn Statement 2022, reflecting the significant shock to the economy and public finances, the independent OBR’s forecasts show that the principles for a return to spending 0.7% GNI on Official Development Assistance (ODA) …

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28 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

In response to our Report, the Government should set out the steps it took in respect of licences already granted prior to the October 2019 announcement. In the interest of transparency, the Government should also provide details of the additional assessments that were made and the factors taken into account in decision making in respect of exports to Turkey following its 2019 announcement. The Government Developments in UK Strategic Export Controls 49 should also set out the rationale for it...

In response to our Report, the Government should set out the steps it took in respect of licences already granted prior to the October 2019 announcement. In the interest of transparency, the Government should also provide details of the additional …

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28 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

The quickening pace of technology advancements and the expected changes in the character of conflict will require swift and holistic action to ensure that the current international approach to technology governance remains fit-for-purpose. (Paragraph 134) 50 Developments in UK Strategic Export Controls

The quickening pace of technology advancements and the expected changes in the character of conflict will require swift and holistic action to ensure that the current international approach to technology governance remains fit-for-purpose. (Paragraph 134) 50 Developments in UK Strategic …

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28 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

The rapid advancement of new technologies such as spyware is a major challenge for export control regimes. Given the Government’s assertion that it is inappropriate to move intrusion software and related licensable goods and technology into Category A of the UK’s trade controls system, in response to our report the Government should set out what action it is taking to address human rights concerns associated with surveillance technologies. The Government should also set out what action it is ...

The rapid advancement of new technologies such as spyware is a major challenge for export control regimes. Given the Government’s assertion that it is inappropriate to move intrusion software and related licensable goods and technology into Category A of the …

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17 Oct 2022 | Government response linked

The Government must ensure consistency between a new strategy on atrocity prevention and the ‘strategic conflict framework’ under development. This framework itself must articulate atrocity prevention objectives, as distinct from general conflict prevention objectives.

The Government must ensure consistency between a new strategy on atrocity prevention and the ‘strategic conflict framework’ under development. This framework itself must articulate atrocity prevention objectives, as distinct from general conflict prevention objectives. Type: recommendation | Number

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17 Oct 2022 | Government response linked

UK aid programmes that strengthen institutions and civil society can foster environments where atrocities are less likely, when these programmes are sensitive to atrocity and conflict risks. We are concerned that successive reductions in those programmes may have blunted their effectiveness. The new International Development Strategy fails to reiterate the previous commitment to direct half of aid spending to fragile and conflict-affected states, which may dilute the UK’s efforts to prevent a...

UK aid programmes that strengthen institutions and civil society can foster environments where atrocities are less likely, when these programmes are sensitive to atrocity and conflict risks. We are concerned that successive reductions in those programmes may have blunted their …

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17 Oct 2022 | Government response linked

The Government must increase the share of UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) spent on development programmes that strengthen inclusive and accountable institutions and that reinforce civil society organisations, consistent with Sustainable Development Goal 16. (Paragraph 89) From Srebrenica to a safer tomorrow: Preventing future mass atrocities around the world 45

The Government must increase the share of UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) spent on development programmes that strengthen inclusive and accountable institutions and that reinforce civil society organisations, consistent with Sustainable Development Goal 16. (Paragraph 89) From Srebrenica to

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17 Oct 2022 | Government response linked

The Government must adopt a marker to tag aid programmes with a substantial atrocity prevention component, which it should use when reporting spending to the International Aid Transparency Index.

The Government must adopt a marker to tag aid programmes with a substantial atrocity prevention component, which it should use when reporting spending to the International Aid Transparency Index. Type: recommendation | Number: 27 | Paragraph: 90 | Response status: …

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17 Oct 2022 | Government response linked

The Government should reassess whether the new International Development Strategy allows for a sufficient share of ODA to reach communities in fragile and conflict- affected states, as well as other states it assesses as being at risk of mass atrocities. It must also introduce a dedicated budget line for atrocity prevention within the Conflict, Stability and Security Fund.

The Government should reassess whether the new International Development Strategy allows for a sufficient share of ODA to reach communities in fragile and conflict- affected states, as well as other states it assesses as being at risk of mass atrocities. …

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28 Jul 2022 | Committee report linked

There is a need for a New Chapter update to the IR and the Defence Command Paper which takes into account the events in Afghanistan and Ukraine. The document should then set out how the analysis of the strategic context has changed and what decisions in the Command Paper the UK Government is reviewing.

There is a need for a New Chapter update to the IR and the Defence Command Paper which takes into account the events in Afghanistan and Ukraine. The document should then set out how the analysis of the strategic context …

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8 Jul 2022 | Committee report linked

The UK’s global technology leadership ambitions should be Government-led but will need to pull in significant support from the private sector as well as academia. There is an opportunity for the FCDO to exemplify the values articulated in the Integrated Review by leading on collaboration with the private sector and civil society, both in the UK and overseas, in the pursuit of its objectives. This should include working to ensure that the voices of smaller companies and less economically devel...

The UK’s global technology leadership ambitions should be Government-led but will need to pull in significant support from the private sector as well as academia. There is an opportunity for the FCDO to exemplify the values articulated in the Integrated …

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8 Jul 2022 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the FCDO designs and publishes in its forthcoming International Technology Strategy metrics on how it is supporting the Integrated Review’s goal of establishing the UK as a science & tech superpower. Performance against these metrics should be set out in the Department’s annual report and accounts. (Paragraph 48) Encoding values: Putting tech at the heart of UK foreign policy 33

We recommend that the FCDO designs and publishes in its forthcoming International Technology Strategy metrics on how it is supporting the Integrated Review’s goal of establishing the UK as a science & tech superpower. Performance against these metrics should be …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

Fundraising is extremely important to many international aid organisations, but public appeals that depict the communities they serve as helpless and needy strip those communities of their dignity. They contribute to the narrative that the countries where they work are somehow inferior to the UK. (Paragraph 31) Racism in the aid sector 31

Fundraising is extremely important to many international aid organisations, but public appeals that depict the communities they serve as helpless and needy strip those communities of their dignity. They contribute to the narrative that the countries where they work are …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

Fundraising appeals should depict positive, realistic stories and wherever possible use local filmmakers. They should seek to inform audiences about the drivers of poverty and inequality instead of giving simplistic messages about the difference donations can make.

Fundraising appeals should depict positive, realistic stories and wherever possible use local filmmakers. They should seek to inform audiences about the drivers of poverty and inequality instead of giving simplistic messages about the difference donations can make. Type: conclusion | …

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23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

The aid sector does not operate in a vacuum. The different forms of discrimination that permeate British society manifest in the aid sector too. Racism is particularly pertinent for aid organisations because they work directly with individuals from around the world who are Black, Indigenous and People of Colour. Discriminatory attitudes within these organisations will have a negative impact on the communities they work with and the programmes they deliver.

The aid sector does not operate in a vacuum. The different forms of discrimination that permeate British society manifest in the aid sector too. Racism is particularly pertinent for aid organisations because they work directly with individuals from around the …

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23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

Aid organisations must ensure their working practices and programmes are mindful of the intersecting identities of their staff and the people they serve.

Aid organisations must ensure their working practices and programmes are mindful of the intersecting identities of their staff and the people they serve. Type: conclusion | Number: 16 | Paragraph: 42 | Response status: under_consideration Government response: The FCDO is …

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23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

Evidence submitted to this inquiry and recent surveys by actors in the UK charity and international aid sectors show the scale of racism experienced by staff who are Black, Indigenous and People of Colour. Any level of racism in the workplace is unacceptable, and the findings that leaders and HR departments are ill equipped to deal with such incidents are deeply concerning.

Evidence submitted to this inquiry and recent surveys by actors in the UK charity and international aid sectors show the scale of racism experienced by staff who are Black, Indigenous and People of Colour. Any level of racism in the …

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23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office should require organisations that it funds, which employ more than 50 staff, to publish their diversity data. This 32 Racism in the aid sector should not act as a barrier to small organisations in receiving funding. The FCDO should work with small organisations to identify ways to increase opportunities for staff from underrepresented groups.

The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office should require organisations that it funds, which employ more than 50 staff, to publish their diversity data. This 32 Racism in the aid sector should not act as a barrier to small organisations in …

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23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

Donors and aid organisations should reduce barriers to entry by ending the use of unpaid internships and paying all employees the living wage and removing unnecessary stipulations in job applications such as years of experience in the international aid sector and higher degrees that disadvantage individuals from under-represented backgrounds.

Donors and aid organisations should reduce barriers to entry by ending the use of unpaid internships and paying all employees the living wage and removing unnecessary stipulations in job applications such as years of experience in the international aid sector …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
23 Jun 2022 | Committee report linked

Aid organisations, including private sector contractors, should publicly acknowledge that racism exists in the sector and prioritise anti-racism work that tackles the underlying culture of their workplaces and not just the racial diversity of their staff. This will include making space for open, honest and often difficult conversations. It also requires them to welcome ideas and approaches suggested by staff who are Black, Indigenous and People of Colour.

Aid organisations, including private sector contractors, should publicly acknowledge that racism exists in the sector and prioritise anti-racism work that tackles the underlying culture of their workplaces and not just the racial diversity of their staff. This will include making …

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23 Jun 2022 | Memorandum linked

Guidelines on informed consent for obtaining and using images should be observed just as thoroughly in relation to individuals from the communities that aid organisations work with, as they are in the UK. It is unacceptable for images to be used and re-used without the subject’s express consent. (Paragraph 36) Data on racism and diversity in the aid sector

Guidelines on informed consent for obtaining and using images should be observed just as thoroughly in relation to individuals from the communities that aid organisations work with, as they are in the UK. It is unacceptable for images to be …

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31 May 2022 | Policy paper Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

FCDO disability inclusion and rights strategy 2022 to 2030

This Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office strategy upholds the UK’s ambitious approach for our work with and for people with disabilities around the world.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK · ↓ FCDO disability inclusion and rights strategy 2…
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↓ FCDO disability inclusion and rights strategy 2022 to 2030.… (46pp) ↓ Our plan to include people with disabilities in our work 20… ↓ Our plan to include people with disabilities in our work 20… (13pp)
24 May 2022 | Committee report linked

When engaging in fragile environments, the Government should keep better records— securely held—on locally-employed staff to ensure that any evacuation can be carried out more effectively. It should devise a policy, based on clear and fair principles, about the assistance that will be offered to local partners in the event of a security deterioration, and report to us when it has done so. In its response to this report, the FCDO should explain why its Lessons Learned review only covers the pe...

When engaging in fragile environments, the Government should keep better records— securely held—on locally-employed staff to ensure that any evacuation can be carried out more effectively. It should devise a policy, based on clear and fair principles, about the assistance …

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24 May 2022 | Committee report linked

The halving of UK aid to Afghanistan in 2020/1 is an example of the harm done by aid cuts that were designed to reduce spending at speed, rather than considering wider UK strategic interests. These cuts, made at a time when Afghanistan was facing the withdrawal of international troops, speak to a disconnect between the UK’s development aid and its wider goals—something the merged FCDO was founded to overcome. The Government should commit to greater assistance to Afghanistan within the current...

The halving of UK aid to Afghanistan in 2020/1 is an example of the harm done by aid cuts that were designed to reduce spending at speed, rather than considering wider UK strategic interests. These cuts, made at a time …

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16 May 2022 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Development Strategy

UIN: HCWS25 Today we have laid out our vision for the future of UK international development. Development will be at the heart of the UK’s foreign policy, which uses all the levers available – including development, diplomacy, investment, trade, defence …

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16 May 2022 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

International Development Strategy

UIN: HLWS25 My Right Honourable Friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Elizabeth Truss), has made the following Written Ministerial Statement:Today we have laid out our vision for the future of UK international development. ...

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

As an emerging science and technology hub in Africa, Nigeria presents opportunities for the UK Government to make progress toward its priority of securing strategic advantage through science and technology. Investment in businesses and capacity development in the IT sector also has the potential to bring benefits to the people of Nigeria in terms of employment and access to life-transforming technologies as well as improving the dynamism of the rest of the economy. To stimulate diaspora inves...

As an emerging science and technology hub in Africa, Nigeria presents opportunities for the UK Government to make progress toward its priority of securing strategic advantage through science and technology. Investment in businesses and capacity development in the IT sector …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

We welcome the innovative steps the UK Government has taken to support Nigeria’s transition to a low carbon economy. However, we believe there is scope for higher ambition in its goals and greater clarity in its approach. We recommend the UK Government works with other international partners to support Nigeria’s transition to a low carbon economy. Learning from other initiatives, we recommend that the Government works with the Nigerian Government in a renewed effort to facilitate UK private s...

We welcome the innovative steps the UK Government has taken to support Nigeria’s transition to a low carbon economy. However, we believe there is scope for higher ambition in its goals and greater clarity in its approach. We recommend the …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

The UK Government should direct its bilateral ODA spending in Pakistan strategically towards supporting marginalised groups reach their full potential.

The UK Government should direct its bilateral ODA spending in Pakistan strategically towards supporting marginalised groups reach their full potential. Type: conclusion | Number: 2 | Paragraph: 7 | Response status: under_consideration Government response: UK aid to Pakistan: Government Response …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

In order to drive inclusive and transformative development in Pakistan, the FCDO should focus its aid programming in Pakistan on long-term interventions rather than short-term projects.

In order to drive inclusive and transformative development in Pakistan, the FCDO should focus its aid programming in Pakistan on long-term interventions rather than short-term projects. Type: conclusion | Number: 8 | Paragraph: 14 | Response status: under_consideration Government response: …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

The FCDO should work with the Pakistani Government and use diplomatic means to ensure that INGOs and NGOs, especially the UK’s aid partners, are able to undertake development work in the country without barriers. The FCDO should write to the Committee within nine months to update us on their progress on this area.

The FCDO should work with the Pakistani Government and use diplomatic means to ensure that INGOs and NGOs, especially the UK’s aid partners, are able to undertake development work in the country without barriers. The FCDO should write to the …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

UK aid programmes focused on supporting the development of an open society do not always fit with the policy objectives of the Pakistani Government. However, progress in this area is key to supporting other core elements of UK development work in Pakistan, such as improving opportunities for women and girls and minorities. However, the Committee are aware that there has been a change in federal Government in Pakistan, and it is not yet clear how the newly formed Government will address the ch...

UK aid programmes focused on supporting the development of an open society do not always fit with the policy objectives of the Pakistani Government. However, progress in this area is key to supporting other core elements of UK development work …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

As such, the UK Government should maintain dialogue with the Pakistani Government on the importance of an open society, including the need for civic spaces and religious and media freedom. As part of this, the FCDO should increase support to Pakistan’s National Commission on the Status of Women and its National Commission on Human Rights. (Paragraph 25) Covid-19 and development in Pakistan

As such, the UK Government should maintain dialogue with the Pakistani Government on the importance of an open society, including the need for civic spaces and religious and media freedom. As part of this, the FCDO should increase support to …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

Like much of the world, Pakistan has been significantly impacted by covid-19. It is clear in Pakistan that marginalised and vulnerable groups have been disproportionately affected.

Like much of the world, Pakistan has been significantly impacted by covid-19. It is clear in Pakistan that marginalised and vulnerable groups have been disproportionately affected. Type: conclusion | Number: 15 | Paragraph: 34 | Response status: not_addressed Government response: …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

The FCDO should continue to carry out aid programmes aimed at helping covid-19 recovery, particularly addressing the impact among marginalised communities, especially children. (Paragraph 34) Development challenges in Pakistan

The FCDO should continue to carry out aid programmes aimed at helping covid-19 recovery, particularly addressing the impact among marginalised communities, especially children. (Paragraph 34) Development challenges in Pakistan Type: conclusion | Number: 16 | Response status: under_consideration Go

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

The aid cuts and the subsequent delays threaten to undermine the UK Government’s education goals in Pakistan, particularly to support the rebuilding of Pakistan’s education system to be more inclusive for girls and the most marginalised communities following the impact of covid-19. (Paragraph 43) UK aid to Pakistan 35

The aid cuts and the subsequent delays threaten to undermine the UK Government’s education goals in Pakistan, particularly to support the rebuilding of Pakistan’s education system to be more inclusive for girls and the most marginalised communities following the impact …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

It is important that UK aid programmes are fully inclusive and target all communities, including marginalised groups and those considered less employable. This is crucial to ensuring that no one is left behind.

It is important that UK aid programmes are fully inclusive and target all communities, including marginalised groups and those considered less employable. This is crucial to ensuring that no one is left behind. Type: conclusion | Number: 22 | Paragraph: …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

The FCDO should proactively target future aid interventions towards getting more of the most marginalised women and girls, including from rural and hard-to-reach communities, into school and actively involved in the economy.

The FCDO should proactively target future aid interventions towards getting more of the most marginalised women and girls, including from rural and hard-to-reach communities, into school and actively involved in the economy. Type: conclusion | Number: 23 | Paragraph: 48 …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

As we collected evidence for this inquiry before the release of this new strategy, the FCDO should provide a detailed explanation of how this new strategy will impact UK aid programming to improve the rights and lives of people with disabilities in Pakistan.

As we collected evidence for this inquiry before the release of this new strategy, the FCDO should provide a detailed explanation of how this new strategy will impact UK aid programming to improve the rights and lives of people with …

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29 Apr 2022 | Government response linked

The UK Government should use its diplomatic influence, including its new Special Envoy on LGBT Rights, to persuade the Pakistani Government to not enforce anti- LGBT+ legislation, and to encourage a change in social attitudes. It should also make clear to all providers and the Pakistani Government that aid programmes must be allowed to be fully inclusive.

The UK Government should use its diplomatic influence, including its new Special Envoy on LGBT Rights, to persuade the Pakistani Government to not enforce anti- LGBT+ legislation, and to encourage a change in social attitudes. It should also make clear …

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29 Apr 2022 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the FCDO adopts an explicit focus on the impact of aid programmes on marginalised and minority communities and develops further specific aid programmes in country targeted at these groups. The FCDO should take into account the particular challenges faced by those who belong to intersecting groups, such as women and girls from religious minorities.

We recommend that the FCDO adopts an explicit focus on the impact of aid programmes on marginalised and minority communities and develops further specific aid programmes in country targeted at these groups. The FCDO should take into account the particular …

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28 Apr 2022 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Provisional Statistics on International Development 2021

UIN: HCWS795 The Statistics on International Development: Provisional UK Aid Spend 2021 was published on 12 April. This set out that the UK spent almost £11.5 billion on Official Development Assistance (ODA) in 2021, representing 0.5% of Gross National Income …

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28 Apr 2022 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Provisional Statistics on International Development 2021

UIN: HLWS769 My Right Honourable Friend, the Minister for Europe and North America (James Cleverly), has made the following Written Ministerial Statement:The Statistics on International Development: Provisional UK Aid Spend 2021 was published on 12 April. This set out...

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4 Mar 2022 | Committee report linked

We welcome the establishment of the Joint Afghanistan Casework Unit but note the lack of clarity around the cost, staffing and current workload of that Unit. We are also concerned that more than three months after it was set up there is still no clarity on whether or not any of the costs of that Unit will be counted as UK ODA expenditure. We recommend that the Government: • establish targets for the performance of the Joint Afghanistan Casework Unit and report quarterly against those targets,...

We welcome the establishment of the Joint Afghanistan Casework Unit but note the lack of clarity around the cost, staffing and current workload of that Unit. We are also concerned that more than three months after it was set up …

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4 Mar 2022 | Committee report linked

We welcome the Government’s publication of 15 December 2021 showing details of the allocation and disbursal of the aid it has pledged to Afghanistan. We urge the Government to publish monthly updates on the allocation and disbursal of its aid to Afghanistan and to countries in the region.

We welcome the Government’s publication of 15 December 2021 showing details of the allocation and disbursal of the aid it has pledged to Afghanistan. We urge the Government to publish monthly updates on the allocation and disbursal of its aid …

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4 Mar 2022 | Committee report linked

We urge the FCDO to release more information on its Development Tracker web pages to better ensure the transparency of reporting on the ODA funding it has allocated to projects in Afghanistan (if necessary, redacting parts of that information to mitigate any risks to safety and security).

We urge the FCDO to release more information on its Development Tracker web pages to better ensure the transparency of reporting on the ODA funding it has allocated to projects in Afghanistan (if necessary, redacting parts of that information to …

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4 Mar 2022 | Committee report linked

We urge the UK Government to further step up its efforts on working with the UN to ensure that aid organisations can effectively operate under the exemptions that UN resolution 2615 (and consequent UK law) permits. It should also urge the UN Security Council to extend those exemptions beyond their initial 12 months review period.

We urge the UK Government to further step up its efforts on working with the UN to ensure that aid organisations can effectively operate under the exemptions that UN resolution 2615 (and consequent UK law) permits. It should also urge …

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4 Mar 2022 | Committee report linked

We welcome the UK’s participation in the Norwegian Government’s talks with the Taliban at the end of January 2021. We call on the UK Government to press for UN resolution 2615 to be extended, or further resolutions to be adopted, to provide exemptions for development assistance, closely linked to the performance of the Taliban on upholding human rights and international law.

We welcome the UK’s participation in the Norwegian Government’s talks with the Taliban at the end of January 2021. We call on the UK Government to press for UN resolution 2615 to be extended, or further resolutions to be adopted, …

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22 Feb 2022 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

20th Replenishment of International Development Association

UIN: HCWS617 The UK will shortly publish its International Development Strategy and the FCDO will publish its Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) allocations, which will promote British expertise and bring more countries into the orbit of free, democratic nations an...

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22 Feb 2022 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

20th Replenishment of International Development Association

UIN: HLWS603 My Right Honourable Friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Elizabeth Truss), has made the following Written Ministerial Statement:The UK will shortly publish its International Development Strategy and the FCDO wi...

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2021

54 events
26 Oct 2021 | Committee report linked

Tackling climate change and biodiversity loss as the Government’s “number one international priority” will inevitably involve international development. We are concerned that the Integrated Review does not include explicit initiatives building the capacity of FCDO’s network to maximise the synergies between departments dealing with development, climate, energy and the environment.

Tackling climate change and biodiversity loss as the Government’s “number one international priority” will inevitably involve international development. We are concerned that the Integrated Review does not include explicit initiatives building the capacity of FCDO’s network to maximise the synergies

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26 Oct 2021 | Committee report linked

We are concerned about the extent to which the priorities and knowledge of marginalised groups are factored into measures tackling climate change. Ensuring that the voices of the most marginalised, local communities are fully taken on board will improve the quality and sustainability of adaptation programmes. We urge the FCDO to apply the Principles for Locally-Led Adaptation in order to address the root causes of social vulnerability in its programmes and to reduce the scope for maladaptatio...

We are concerned about the extent to which the priorities and knowledge of marginalised groups are factored into measures tackling climate change. Ensuring that the voices of the most marginalised, local communities are fully taken on board will improve the …

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26 Oct 2021 | Committee report linked

We also heard concerns about CDC’s level of transparency in its reporting. Dario Kenner told us that although the level of information provided on CDC’s website had improved “a great deal”, third parties sought more disclosure of data especially in the area of CDC’s work with financial institutions and intermediaries.143 Mr Kenner told us that: It is important where CDC money is still invested because it could be undermining that same transition that CDC could play a role in being part of. It...

We also heard concerns about CDC’s level of transparency in its reporting. Dario Kenner told us that although the level of information provided on CDC’s website had improved “a great deal”, third parties sought more disclosure of data especially in …

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26 Oct 2021 | Committee report linked

On the exemptions to CDC’s new fossil fuel policy, Colin Buckley, General Counsel and Head of External Affairs at CDC, told us that it would “respect the individual country road maps to net zero” as “developing countries will all have slightly different paths to get to net zero by 2030”.154

On the exemptions to CDC’s new fossil fuel policy, Colin Buckley, General Counsel and Head of External Affairs at CDC, told us that it would “respect the individual country road maps to net zero” as “developing countries will all have …

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26 Oct 2021 | Committee report linked

On the pace of transition, CDC state on their webpage that: we avoid short-term policy changes. We are a long-term investor who thinks in decades rather than years.155 Colin Buckley told us that the perceived slow pace at aligning with the Paris Agreement of 2015 was due to “investment decisions that were made over a decade ago” and to the “importance of natural gas as a transition power […] in countries that simply do not have the renewable structure yet”.156 Mr Buckley also told us that: th...

On the pace of transition, CDC state on their webpage that: we avoid short-term policy changes. We are a long-term investor who thinks in decades rather than years.155 Colin Buckley told us that the perceived slow pace at aligning with …

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26 Oct 2021 | Committee report linked

On transparency and availability of data on CDC investments, Dr Amal-Lee Amin, Director of Climate Change, Value Creation Strategies team at the CDC, stated that it was “very much an evolving process.”158

On transparency and availability of data on CDC investments, Dr Amal-Lee Amin, Director of Climate Change, Value Creation Strategies team at the CDC, stated that it was “very much an evolving process.”158 Type: conclusion | Number: 73 | Response status: …

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26 Oct 2021 | Committee report linked

Tackling climate change and biodiversity loss as the Government’s “number one international priority” will inevitably involve international development. We are concerned that the Integrated Review does not include explicit initiatives building the capacity of FCDO’s network to maximise the synergies between departments dealing with development, climate, energy and the environment.

Tackling climate change and biodiversity loss as the Government’s “number one international priority” will inevitably involve international development. We are concerned that the Integrated Review does not include explicit initiatives building the capacity of FCDO’s network to maximise the synergies

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
30 Sep 2021 | Committee report linked

The WHO needs support to withstand political pressure from certain member states. There should be no space for doubt about the independence of the WHO’s leadership, particularly given the organisation’s important work during the pandemic. Working in a highly political environment and facing targeted attempts at influence by Beijing and other governments, the Director-General should be insulated from the need to campaign for re-election. Making key deliberations public would help to remove any...

The WHO needs support to withstand political pressure from certain member states. There should be no space for doubt about the independence of the WHO’s leadership, particularly given the organisation’s important work during the pandemic. Working in a highly political …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
30 Sep 2021 | Committee report linked

Without a full and transparent investigation into the origins of covid-19, we are at greater risk of a disastrous new outbreak. By impeding efforts to trace the origins of the virus, Beijing is endangering its own population along with the rest of the world. Even with a full investigation, the limited access to data and to key sites in China in the early days of the pandemic makes any investigation more difficult—this must be addressed for any future outbreaks. The Government should work with...

Without a full and transparent investigation into the origins of covid-19, we are at greater risk of a disastrous new outbreak. By impeding efforts to trace the origins of the virus, Beijing is endangering its own population along with the …

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30 Sep 2021 | Committee report linked

The pandemic has highlighted the global nature of health security, and the need for greater international cooperation in this area. In an interconnected world, health security is inextricable from foreign policy. A cross-Government strategy on global health security is important to UK leadership in this area, and transparency is vital to ensure proper scrutiny. It is near-certain that there will be another pandemic in the coming years, and the Government should learn the lessons of covid-19 a...

The pandemic has highlighted the global nature of health security, and the need for greater international cooperation in this area. In an interconnected world, health security is inextricable from foreign policy. A cross-Government strategy on global health security is important …

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16 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

This support should be contingent on the NUG’s clear and continued commitment to the rights of different ethnic groups and minorities, and to delivering justice for past crimes. The UK should work to encourage other countries to do the same.

This support should be contingent on the NUG’s clear and continued commitment to the rights of different ethnic groups and minorities, and to delivering justice for past crimes. The UK should work to encourage other countries to do the same. …

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14 Jul 2021 | Committee report ISU linked

Ongoing monitoring of the global technology landscape by the FCDO should inform any future changes, as needed, to (a) the sectors subject to mandatory notification under the National Security and Investment Bill, and (b) the factors to be taken into consideration by the BEIS Secretary of State when assessing transactions, as set out in the Statement of Policy Intent. We recommend that the annual report outlines how this information has been taken into account in the Secretary of State’s decis...

Ongoing monitoring of the global technology landscape by the FCDO should inform any future changes, as needed, to (a) the sectors subject to mandatory notification under the National Security and Investment Bill, and (b) the factors to be taken into …

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14 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

For the FCDO to add value to the NSI regime, it will be important that the Department has the necessary skills, expertise and structures to effectively support the ISU. If the Government continues to behave in the same ways and rely on the same skills base as it has previously, it will continue to see the same results—or worse, given our changing security environment.

For the FCDO to add value to the NSI regime, it will be important that the Department has the necessary skills, expertise and structures to effectively support the ISU. If the Government continues to behave in the same ways and …

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14 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

The FCDO should demonstrate leadership on the foreign relations aspects of foreign investment decisions. Supporting the ISU’s work in this area is a key responsibility of the FCDO. It will be vital that the Department has the right expertise both at overseas Posts and in London to fulfil this responsibility, including through ongoing monitoring of the global investment landscape. We recommend that the Government outlines how it intends to achieve this in its response to this report.

The FCDO should demonstrate leadership on the foreign relations aspects of foreign investment decisions. Supporting the ISU’s work in this area is a key responsibility of the FCDO. It will be vital that the Department has the right expertise both …

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14 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

Given the complex and transnational nature of the global investment landscape, the UK cannot operate alone on this matter. The Government should cooperate on FDI screening with other countries with whom we share values and strategic objectives. We recommend that the FCDO seeks to play a leading role in bringing together countries and partners from overseas and in building alliances to make sure investment vehicles in one country aren’t used as a Trojan horse in others. (Paragraph 54) Transpar...

Given the complex and transnational nature of the global investment landscape, the UK cannot operate alone on this matter. The Government should cooperate on FDI screening with other countries with whom we share values and strategic objectives. We recommend that …

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8 Jul 2021 | Government response linked

We recommend that the Government commits financial and bureaucratic resources to ensuring future Build Back Better World projects meet all internationally recognised standards, including on labour rights, environmental measures, and transparency.

We recommend that the Government commits financial and bureaucratic resources to ensuring future Build Back Better World projects meet all internationally recognised standards, including on labour rights, environmental measures, and transparency. Type: recommendation | Number: 10 | Paragraph: 25 |

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8 Jul 2021 | Government response linked

In its response to this report, we ask that the Government inform us of when the Department for International Trade will share the export review’s findings and actions with Parliament.

In its response to this report, we ask that the Government inform us of when the Department for International Trade will share the export review’s findings and actions with Parliament. Type: conclusion | Number: 19 | Paragraph: 42 | Response …

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28 May 2021 | Committee report linked

The Roadmap was warmly welcomed by those who gave evidence to us. Professor Chris Pearce,263 Professor Rebecca Lunn,264 and Professor James Conroy265 particularly welcomed the dual commitment of increasing money in real terms and of reaching 2.4% of GDP spent on R&D, especially in light of the pandemic. The Roadmap was also welcomed by Universities UK.266 Impact of reduced UK ODA spend on Scottish academic research

The Roadmap was warmly welcomed by those who gave evidence to us. Professor Chris Pearce,263 Professor Rebecca Lunn,264 and Professor James Conroy265 particularly welcomed the dual commitment of increasing money in real terms and of reaching 2.4% of GDP spent …

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28 May 2021 | Committee report linked

The decision to reduce UK ODA spend from 0.7% to 0.5% of GNI, and the implications this has for the financing of UK academic research, has been criticised by the higher education sector, especially in Scotland, with Universities Scotland saying: [ … ] the scale of cuts is significantly higher than expected, at an eye watering 70% according to the latest estimates. The implications of this announcement appear to be completely at odds with the UK Government’s bold ambitions [in the UK Governmen...

The decision to reduce UK ODA spend from 0.7% to 0.5% of GNI, and the implications this has for the financing of UK academic research, has been criticised by the higher education sector, especially in Scotland, with Universities Scotland saying: …

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28 May 2021 | Committee report linked

The Chancellor has said that sticking rigidly to the ODA target was difficult to justify under current economic circumstances but that he intended to return to 0.7% “when the fiscal situation allows”.271

The Chancellor has said that sticking rigidly to the ODA target was difficult to justify under current economic circumstances but that he intended to return to 0.7% “when the fiscal situation allows”.271 Type: conclusion | Number: 119 | Response status: …

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28 May 2021 | Committee report linked

The UK Government should be praised for its UK Research and Development Roadmap, especially the commitment to reach 2.4% of GDP spend in this area, which has been extensively welcomed by academic institutions in Scotland. The UK Government should ensure that the commitments it made in the UK Research and Development Roadmap are not derailed as a result of the temporary reduction in UK ODA spend. UK Research and Innovation UKRI role and governance

The UK Government should be praised for its UK Research and Development Roadmap, especially the commitment to reach 2.4% of GDP spend in this area, which has been extensively welcomed by academic institutions in Scotland. The UK Government should ensure …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
30 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

We commend the work of aid agencies in their provision of lifesaving assistance to communities in Tigray, despite the extraordinarily difficult circumstances in which they are delivering this help. It is likely that the number of people whose basic needs are not met will grow as the conflict continues. In addition, as humanitarian agencies reach parts of Tigray that have so far been inaccessible, they will discover many more cases of unmet need, creating a widening gap between the level of ne...

We commend the work of aid agencies in their provision of lifesaving assistance to communities in Tigray, despite the extraordinarily difficult circumstances in which they are delivering this help. It is likely that the number of people whose basic needs …

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30 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

The provision and distribution of lifesaving humanitarian assistance, such as shelter, food and medicine, is a vital first stage in the response to the situation in Tigray. The humanitarian situation in Tigray 5 Following this, the restoration of basic services such as schools and hospitals will be key in both responding to current needs and starting the path towards post-conflict reconstruction. Health and social services are critical. Many of those who have suffered trauma and violence will...

The provision and distribution of lifesaving humanitarian assistance, such as shelter, food and medicine, is a vital first stage in the response to the situation in Tigray. The humanitarian situation in Tigray 5 Following this, the restoration of basic services …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK
30 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

Without adequate access, any humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray will be severely constrained. We recommend that the UK Government work with the Ethiopian Government and the relevant regional authorities to ensure humanitarian agencies have unimpeded access to communities in need in Tigray and neighbouring regions. These efforts should be undertaken in concert with diplomatic efforts to end the fighting and find a peaceful, inclusive political solution to the crisis. 94 Q29 [James D...

Without adequate access, any humanitarian response to the crisis in Tigray will be severely constrained. We recommend that the UK Government work with the Ethiopian Government and the relevant regional authorities to ensure humanitarian agencies have unimpeded access to communities …

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30 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the FCDO monitors OCHA’s situation reports carefully to rapidly identify any areas where needs are unmet or are growing faster than expected so that it can respond rapidly and flexibly to provide the support needed. We also recommend that, as the situation on the ground becomes clearer, the FCDO assesses whether its current humanitarian contribution is adequate to ensure that the basic needs of communities are met.

We recommend that the FCDO monitors OCHA’s situation reports carefully to rapidly identify any areas where needs are unmet or are growing faster than expected so that it can respond rapidly and flexibly to provide the support needed. We also …

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30 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

The UK Government has said that “Ethiopia is a strategically important partner for the UK in tackling poverty, regional instability and irregular migration”135 and that it “relies on a stable Ethiopia that is supportive of our foreign policy priorities in the Horn of Africa.”136, 137 The former DFID’s vision of Ethiopia was that “by 2020 Ethiopia is transforming into a stable, industrialised, resilient, more inclusive country, able to self- finance its way out of poverty and harness the poten...

The UK Government has said that “Ethiopia is a strategically important partner for the UK in tackling poverty, regional instability and irregular migration”135 and that it “relies on a stable Ethiopia that is supportive of our foreign policy priorities in …

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30 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

Finally, it matters because the conditions—a conflict that could become protracted or could destabilise the region and spread, allegations of human rights abuses, gender-based violence, sexual violence, the allegations of genocide and the use of hunger as a weapon of war—represent an early test of the Government’s new approach to integrated diplomacy and development and its commitment to establish the UK as a ‘force for good’ in the world.

Finally, it matters because the conditions—a conflict that could become protracted or could destabilise the region and spread, allegations of human rights abuses, gender-based violence, sexual violence, the allegations of genocide and the use of hunger as a weapon of …

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30 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

We believe that the UK Government should be working to: • help bring about an end to the conflict and prevent it from spreading; • ensure that the humanitarian needs of those affected by the conflict are met, that people can safely return to their homes and that essential services are restored as quickly as possible; • help find an inclusive political settlement that delivers a sustainable peace; • establish a process for reconciliation—drawing on the UK’s previous experience in supporting re...

We believe that the UK Government should be working to: • help bring about an end to the conflict and prevent it from spreading; • ensure that the humanitarian needs of those affected by the conflict are met, that people …

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21 Apr 2021 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

FCDO Update

UIN: HCWS935 UK Official Development Assistance departmental allocations 2021-22The FCDO has responsibility for delivering £8,115m of Official Development Assistance (ODA) spend this year, approximately 80% of total UK ODA. I have recently concluded the FCDO’s interna...

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21 Apr 2021 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

FCDO Update

UIN: HLWS929 My Right Honourable Friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Dominic Raab), has made the following Written Ministerial Statement:UK Official Development Assistance departmental allocations 2021-22The FCDO has respo...

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19 Apr 2021 | Committee report linked

The Government should ensure its objectives for COP26 are brought into all of the FCDO’s foreign policy activity, including trade deals, decisions on overseas aid and bilateral and multilateral conversations with other UNFCCC parties. The Government’s international development strategy should be published before COP26 and prioritise climate and biodiversity, listing the commitments that the UK will make along with pledges secured by partners. The recovery from covid-19 will require a Marshall...

The Government should ensure its objectives for COP26 are brought into all of the FCDO’s foreign policy activity, including trade deals, decisions on overseas aid and bilateral and multilateral conversations with other UNFCCC parties. The Government’s international development strategy should …

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25 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

As the UK emerges from the pandemic, and in light of the UN Secretary General’s words that “in an interconnected world, none of us is safe until all of us are safe”, the Armed Forces may also have an important role to play in ensuring the vaccine reaches those in countries with less-robust healthcare systems or in areas of instability. We call on the government to ensure it makes best use of the Armed Forces’ skills in planning and logistics to assist with the distribution and administration ...

As the UK emerges from the pandemic, and in light of the UN Secretary General’s words that “in an interconnected world, none of us is safe until all of us are safe”, the Armed Forces may also have an important …

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17 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

We believe the Department must do more to meet its commitments to uphold human rights, particularly in relation to businesses with links to China. While transparency of supply chain legislation falls under the remit of the Home Office, business transactions are a BEIS responsibility. Despite mounting evidence, the Department has shown little sign that it is taking a proactive or meaningful lead on investigating UK business links to forced labour and other human rights abuses in China or elsew...

We believe the Department must do more to meet its commitments to uphold human rights, particularly in relation to businesses with links to China. While transparency of supply chain legislation falls under the remit of the Home Office, business transactions …

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17 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

We further recommend that the Government a) accelerate its plans to extend the reporting requirement to public bodies, b) enhance the transparency and accessibility of modern slavery statements, and c) develop options for civil penalties for non-compliance. We ask the Government to bring forward concrete plans for the Uyghur forced labour in Xinjiang and UK value chains 25 implementation of these proposals as a matter of priority. These proposals should include a commitment to creating a publ...

We further recommend that the Government a) accelerate its plans to extend the reporting requirement to public bodies, b) enhance the transparency and accessibility of modern slavery statements, and c) develop options for civil penalties for non-compliance. We ask the …

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17 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

We were disappointed that the information provided by the Minister about the deployment of BEIS Department ODA funding in China only gave a high-level overview of the various research and training programmes taking place in China under the umbrella of BEIS ODA. This is important because it does not guarantee effective oversight of the use of BEIS funding in China.

We were disappointed that the information provided by the Minister about the deployment of BEIS Department ODA funding in China only gave a high-level overview of the various research and training programmes taking place in China under the umbrella of …

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17 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Department commit to full transparency in terms of its ODA funding being used in China to ensure that no Government funds are being used to underpin human rights abuses. The use of taxpayer funds needs to be addressed. The Department should conduct an urgent review of its direct expenditure, including those via other UK Government departments - in particular the DIT and FCDO - or public bodies in China, to ensure it is compliant with the principles expressed in this report.

We recommend that the Department commit to full transparency in terms of its ODA funding being used in China to ensure that no Government funds are being used to underpin human rights abuses. The use of taxpayer funds needs to …

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17 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

The Department should also publish a comprehensive supply chain review of Newton Fund-supported projects in China and provide the Committee with a full list of the organisations it works with in administering the Newton Fund and the sums of money involved. (Paragraph 75) 26 Uyghur forced labour in Xinjiang and UK value chains

The Department should also publish a comprehensive supply chain review of Newton Fund-supported projects in China and provide the Committee with a full list of the organisations it works with in administering the Newton Fund and the sums of money …

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16 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

We have repeatedly urged the Department to take the difficult investment decisions needed to develop a balanced investment programme, highlighting missed opportunities to address fundamental weaknesses in its management of the Equipment Plan.48 The Department acknowledged that the lack of certainty over long-term funding had prevented it from taking strategic decisions to address the structural imbalance in the Plan. The Spending Review settlement, announced in November 2020, now gives the De...

We have repeatedly urged the Department to take the difficult investment decisions needed to develop a balanced investment programme, highlighting missed opportunities to address fundamental weaknesses in its management of the Equipment Plan.48 The Department acknowledged that the lack of …

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5 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

The success of COP26 is dependent on effective diplomacy. It remains unclear whether the COP26 Unit has been assigned a dedicated diplomatic team, nor the extent to which the diplomatic network is engaged further than having received correspondence from the Foreign and Development Secretary. We recommend that the COP26 President, alongside the Prime Minister and Foreign and Development Secretary, make it publicly clear that the full force of the British civil service is being appropriately ap...

The success of COP26 is dependent on effective diplomacy. It remains unclear whether the COP26 Unit has been assigned a dedicated diplomatic team, nor the extent to which the diplomatic network is engaged further than having received correspondence from the …

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5 Mar 2021 | Committee report linked

We welcome the COP26 President’s commitment to appear before the Committee. We invite him to confirm his willingness to appear before the Committee on the three occasions set out above, and to provide detail on any other approaches to facilitating Parliamentary scrutiny of COP26 preparations that he intends to take. This approach should be extended to all devolved legislators.

We welcome the COP26 President’s commitment to appear before the Committee. We invite him to confirm his willingness to appear before the Committee on the three occasions set out above, and to provide detail on any other approaches to facilitating …

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26 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

The reduction of UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) from 0.7% to 0.5% of annual Gross National Income (GNI) from 2021 necessitates an approach which ensures that UK ODA is spent in a more strategic and effective way than ever before. This approach should be reflected in the priorities set and the programmes funded by the FCDO in relation to the secondary impacts of covid-19. Drawing the right lessons from the multiple, significant changes since January 2020 is essential to ensuring an e...

The reduction of UK Official Development Assistance (ODA) from 0.7% to 0.5% of annual Gross National Income (GNI) from 2021 necessitates an approach which ensures that UK ODA is spent in a more strategic and effective way than ever before. …

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26 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

We support the Foreign Secretary’s inclusion of key secondary impacts of covid-19, such as famine, in the new Strategic Framework for UK ODA. However, we are concerned that the framework omits other crucial areas, including an explicit commitment to poverty reduction.

We support the Foreign Secretary’s inclusion of key secondary impacts of covid-19, such as famine, in the new Strategic Framework for UK ODA. However, we are concerned that the framework omits other crucial areas, including an explicit commitment to poverty …

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26 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

To strengthen the UK’s approach to tackling the secondary impacts of covid-19 in developing countries, the FCDO should design, apply and publish a long-term strategy relating to covid-19 by the end of the financial year. It should then revisit its ‘seven global challenges’ outlined in the new Strategic Framework for UK ODA, and provide us with a written assessment of how the framework will deliver this strategy, and how the framework will be amended accordingly if necessary. At a multilateral...

To strengthen the UK’s approach to tackling the secondary impacts of covid-19 in developing countries, the FCDO should design, apply and publish a long-term strategy relating to covid-19 by the end of the financial year. It should then revisit its …

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26 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

The pandemic is having a particularly detrimental effect upon already vulnerable groups by reinforcing inequalities and discrimination. To counteract this, we recommend that the FCDO take the following steps: • To undertake and publish impact assessments as quickly as possible (and no later than March 2021). • To collect and publish disaggregated data relating to age, disability and gender in order to provide an effective and inclusive response to the secondary impacts of covid-19 which leave...

The pandemic is having a particularly detrimental effect upon already vulnerable groups by reinforcing inequalities and discrimination. To counteract this, we recommend that the FCDO take the following steps: • To undertake and publish impact assessments as quickly as possible …

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26 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

We welcome the UK’s role in extending the G20’s Debt Service Suspension Initiative to 30 June 2021, the measure to temporarily suspend debt service payments for the poorest countries. As the majority of these outstanding debts are governed by English law, the UK Government is in a unique position to send a global message on debt service payments by suspending or cancelling repayments. We urge the Government to extend the Debt Service Suspension Initiative beyond June 2021 and to use its influ...

We welcome the UK’s role in extending the G20’s Debt Service Suspension Initiative to 30 June 2021, the measure to temporarily suspend debt service payments for the poorest countries. As the majority of these outstanding debts are governed by English …

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26 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

Livelihoods in developing countries have been devastated by the pandemic. Workers in economically precarious sectors, such as agriculture, are especially vulnerable to the economic shock and instability caused by covid-19. We believe that protecting these jobs is central to enabling people to lift themselves out of poverty. We request that the FCDO write to us on a quarterly basis, outlining how the Government’s economic and trade interventions which form part of the Strategic Framework for O...

Livelihoods in developing countries have been devastated by the pandemic. Workers in economically precarious sectors, such as agriculture, are especially vulnerable to the economic shock and instability caused by covid-19. We believe that protecting these jobs is central to enabling …

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26 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

We are concerned by the likely increase in gender inequality following the outbreak of covid-19 and its potential impact upon programmes promoting gender equality. In its response to this report, the FCDO should set out how they have implemented Covid-19 in developing countries: secondary impacts 39 their “Smart Rules”, their operating framework for better and gendered programme delivery. We further recommend that the FCDO refresh DFID’s Strategic Vision for Gender Equality to form a consiste...

We are concerned by the likely increase in gender inequality following the outbreak of covid-19 and its potential impact upon programmes promoting gender equality. In its response to this report, the FCDO should set out how they have implemented Covid-19 …

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26 Jan 2021 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Development Update

UIN: HCWS735 As agreed with the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer at the last Spending Review, I have completed the cross-government review of how Official Development Assistance (ODA) will be allocated against the government’s priorities for 2021. …

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26 Jan 2021 | Announcement Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office linked

Development Update

UIN: HLWS732 My Right Honourable Friend, the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs (Dominic Raab), has made the following Written Ministerial Statement: As agreed with the Prime Minister and the Chancellor of the Exchequer at the last …

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14 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

Aid organisations must be alert to the barriers that might prevent aid beneficiaries from reporting abuses. They should design sensitive reporting mechanisms with the local population, in order to give victims and survivors, and their families and friends a safe means to report their concerns and complaints. This might include face-to-face reporting if they prefer and will often involve community- based organisations and safe spaces for women to report, without necessarily going through the f...

Aid organisations must be alert to the barriers that might prevent aid beneficiaries from reporting abuses. They should design sensitive reporting mechanisms with the local population, in order to give victims and survivors, and their families and friends a safe …

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14 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

We hope work to improve investigations at UK ODA receiving partners will continue under the merged FCDO in a way that encourages participation of the local population in the process. However, the culture of the sector (described in Chapter 4 of this report) is also key to ensuring that robust investigations are undertaken and complaints against perpetrators are upheld.

We hope work to improve investigations at UK ODA receiving partners will continue under the merged FCDO in a way that encourages participation of the local population in the process. However, the culture of the sector (described in Chapter 4 …

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14 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

Employment cycle schemes which are designed to prevent perpetrators of sexual exploitation and abuse from being re-hired in the aid sector will only work if perpetrators are reported and robust investigations undertaken. Therefore, improving reporting and investigations should be prioritised. The FCDO should support initiatives to increase investigations capacity in the aid sector and work with its partners to ensure that the employment cycle schemes incorporate checks and balances to ensure ...

Employment cycle schemes which are designed to prevent perpetrators of sexual exploitation and abuse from being re-hired in the aid sector will only work if perpetrators are reported and robust investigations undertaken. Therefore, improving reporting and investigations should be prioritised. …

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14 Jan 2021 | Committee report linked

Although aid organisations have taken many welcome steps to raise awareness and combat sexual exploitation and abuse, the changes have focussed on strengthening weak practices and policy development rather than transforming the power dynamics and enabling culture that have been embedded in the aid sector. Until a true transformation takes place, we fear that what happened during the 2018–20 Ebola response in the DRC could continue to occur in humanitarian aid settings around the world. (Parag...

Although aid organisations have taken many welcome steps to raise awareness and combat sexual exploitation and abuse, the changes have focussed on strengthening weak practices and policy development rather than transforming the power dynamics and enabling culture that have been …

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2020

40 events
16 Dec 2020 | Committee report linked

Engagement with Iran should not be an end goal in and of itself. Rather, engagement should seek to encourage Iran to play a positive, constructive and predictable role as a regional power, which uses international norms, respect for human rights and the rule of law as the basis for its actions. At its heart, a strategy must send a clear message: that Iran’s destabilising activities are unacceptable because they adversely impact the region and its peoples, but that when the time comes, the doo...

Engagement with Iran should not be an end goal in and of itself. Rather, engagement should seek to encourage Iran to play a positive, constructive and predictable role as a regional power, which uses international norms, respect for human rights …

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16 Dec 2020 | Committee report linked

We recommend that, in the aftermath of the Integrated Review, the Foreign Secretary makes a statement to the House to outline specifically what a replacement to the JCPOA should seek to achieve and over what timeframe. In so doing, the Foreign Secretary should address i) exactly what the UK wants to achieve from broader engagement with Iran, ii) which allies can facilitate and complement those discussions, and iii) how such an agreement will fit within the framework of the UK’s long-term stra...

We recommend that, in the aftermath of the Integrated Review, the Foreign Secretary makes a statement to the House to outline specifically what a replacement to the JCPOA should seek to achieve and over what timeframe. In so doing, the …

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13 Nov 2020 | Committee report linked

We recommend that, as part of a renewed consistent approach to promoting global health, the FCDO should continue to fund existing programmes aimed at the eradication of previously identified diseases. The Government should use its integrated voice to lobby development allies and partners to stop any transfer of resources from existing programmes, and the Global Fund, to Covid initiatives.

We recommend that, as part of a renewed consistent approach to promoting global health, the FCDO should continue to fund existing programmes aimed at the eradication of previously identified diseases. The Government should use its integrated voice to lobby development …

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13 Nov 2020 | Committee report linked

We believe the FCDO should: • recognise that the eradication of the pandemic everywhere is an integral part of resolving the threat anywhere and therefore switch its financial support for Covid-19 vaccines, therapies and tests voluntarily from its ODA pot to other budgets (thereby freeing up resources for more frontline activity on secondary impacts in developing countries) • re-commit to its ongoing programmes and provide new funding for the Covid-19 response—in particular in relation to sec...

We believe the FCDO should: • recognise that the eradication of the pandemic everywhere is an integral part of resolving the threat anywhere and therefore switch its financial support for Covid-19 vaccines, therapies and tests voluntarily from its ODA pot …

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13 Nov 2020 | Committee report linked

At a strategic level, we urge the PM and the Government to be more ambitious for the UK’s G7 Presidency than simply calling for better cooperation in spotting, preventing and fighting another pandemic more effectively. Rather, we recommend the Government lead a charge towards the establishment of a holistic global health and nutrition strategy based around achieving Sustainable Development Goal Three (ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages) more broadly. This woul...

At a strategic level, we urge the PM and the Government to be more ambitious for the UK’s G7 Presidency than simply calling for better cooperation in spotting, preventing and fighting another pandemic more effectively. Rather, we recommend the Government …

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28 Oct 2020 | Committee report linked

In 2018, the Government announced its export strategy and an ambition to raise exports as a proportion of GDP from 30% to 35%.24 This committee has recently highlighted how important it is for any public body to be clear about and accountable for what it is trying to achieve, and the criteria it will use to judge whether it is being successful. Furthermore, we emphasised the need for performance information that helps public bodies understand how effective they are and what impact they are ha...

In 2018, the Government announced its export strategy and an ambition to raise exports as a proportion of GDP from 30% to 35%.24 This committee has recently highlighted how important it is for any public body to be clear about …

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26 Oct 2020 | Committee report linked

The Government must, with some urgency, set out how its proposed information recovery mechanism will operate, including the means by which it will obtain information. The needs of victims and survivors, for truth, accountability and for reconciliation will be deeply damaged if information is not fully available without 28 Addressing the Legacy of Northern Ireland’s Past: the Government’s New Proposals (Interim Report) impediment to legacy structures. For this to be successful, transparency an...

The Government must, with some urgency, set out how its proposed information recovery mechanism will operate, including the means by which it will obtain information. The needs of victims and survivors, for truth, accountability and for reconciliation will be deeply …

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26 Oct 2020 | Written evidence linked

We are disappointed that the UK Government has decided not to submit, to date, written evidence to our inquiry, but we look forward to receiving it, just as we would look forward to formal submissions from the Irish Government. In addition, the planned oral evidence session with the Secretary of State was postponed at the request of the Government. This Report is necessarily an Interim Report, in which we set out our recommendations and conclusions with a view to informing the future policy. ...

We are disappointed that the UK Government has decided not to submit, to date, written evidence to our inquiry, but we look forward to receiving it, just as we would look forward to formal submissions from the Irish Government. In …

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22 Oct 2020 | Committee report linked

None of our contributors wanted the UK to stand back or keep quiet. All of them urged the UK to step up, do more, and play a more impactful role in the world. They highlighted the positive contribution that the UK could make to international relations, and the negative implications if it declined.

None of our contributors wanted the UK to stand back or keep quiet. All of them urged the UK to step up, do more, and play a more impactful role in the world. They highlighted the positive contribution that the …

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22 Oct 2020 | Committee report linked

The Integrated Review must address a lack of clear strategic vision, a lack of confidence, and lack of coherent implementation that has undermined recent international policy by the UK. The Review should respond, and be seen to respond, to the consultation that it has undertaken and the challenge that a robust review requires. It should publish its evidence base transparently, showing that future policy has a broad and strong foundation. And, for Global Britain to be more than just a slogan, ...

The Integrated Review must address a lack of clear strategic vision, a lack of confidence, and lack of coherent implementation that has undermined recent international policy by the UK. The Review should respond, and be seen to respond, to the …

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22 Oct 2020 | Committee report linked

Soft power is key to the UK’s international influence. It is about much more than culture: the way it is used by some nations suggests it is the entire capability of the state short of war, for others it is the power of attraction. The Government must not become complacent about the UK’s advantages in this space, and the risk of their erosion. It should respond to the desire abroad for the UK to lead, and set a positive example, in new and innovative ways. We recommend that the Government pub...

Soft power is key to the UK’s international influence. It is about much more than culture: the way it is used by some nations suggests it is the entire capability of the state short of war, for others it is …

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11 Sep 2020 | Committee report linked

We call on the Government to throw its diplomatic weight behind the global community in investing in public health systems in developing countries; ensuring that testing, treatment and a vaccine when developed is made as widely available Economic impact of coronavirus: the challenges of recovery 57 as possible to emerging economies. The Government should also consider increasing the resources available to the International Monetary Fund, should it be needed to maintain countries’ internationa...

We call on the Government to throw its diplomatic weight behind the global community in investing in public health systems in developing countries; ensuring that testing, treatment and a vaccine when developed is made as widely available Economic impact of …

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13 Aug 2020 | Committee report linked

The Government should review how far these activities were aligned with or deviated from the outcomes of previous Reviews, in order to better In Search of Strategy — The 2020 Integrated Review 55 understand how to ensure the Integrated Review provides a sustainable and actionable framework for the future. In response to our report, if it has not done so before, the Government should: a. Explain how existing lessons learned will inform the Review b. Set out what new analysis will be carried ou...

The Government should review how far these activities were aligned with or deviated from the outcomes of previous Reviews, in order to better In Search of Strategy — The 2020 Integrated Review 55 understand how to ensure the Integrated Review …

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13 Aug 2020 | Committee report linked

We have heard that in order to identify the desired “ends” of the UK’s security, defence, development and foreign policy, the Review must clearly articulate the UK’s interests and values. Whilst scrutiny of the UK’s foreign policy falls to the Foreign Affairs Committee, from a defence perspective we believe that the Review should answer the following questions: a. How does the UK define its national interest abroad? b. What role do values play in the UK’s foreign policy? c. How will the UK pu...

We have heard that in order to identify the desired “ends” of the UK’s security, defence, development and foreign policy, the Review must clearly articulate the UK’s interests and values. Whilst scrutiny of the UK’s foreign policy falls to the …

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13 Aug 2020 | Committee report linked

To ensure that the Review considers the ways, ends and means of the UK’s security, defence, development and foreign policy in the round, the Government must set out the mechanisms that will be used to ensure the alignment between the Integrated Review and the Comprehensive Spending Review and clarify the baseline for increases in defence spending.

To ensure that the Review considers the ways, ends and means of the UK’s security, defence, development and foreign policy in the round, the Government must set out the mechanisms that will be used to ensure the alignment between the …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

Given the gap between the merger and the reporting date of the Integrated Review, the FCDO risks operating for months without clear strategic direction, which will be compounded by the likely productivity dips which follow departmental mergers. The FCDO is being created to bring coherent strategy to UK foreign and development policies at a time of global change, so establishing clear objectives at the departmental level is essential to ensure that the UK’s unified international policy is unde...

Given the gap between the merger and the reporting date of the Integrated Review, the FCDO risks operating for months without clear strategic direction, which will be compounded by the likely productivity dips which follow departmental mergers. The FCDO is …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

For the Government to deliver on its stated aim of more accountable development spending with a greater focus on the national interest, it should establish and deliver on a clear strategy for communicating its interpretation of the ‘national interest’ to Parliament, institute regular reporting to Parliament, and be explicit in the ways in which the FCDO will help deliver it.

For the Government to deliver on its stated aim of more accountable development spending with a greater focus on the national interest, it should establish and deliver on a clear strategy for communicating its interpretation of the ‘national interest’ to …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

The FCO and DFID have shared ministers since February 2020, which may provide the model for ministerial portfolios in the new Department. However, it is not yet clear how many Ministers will serve in the new Department, whether the existing joint portfolios will be replicated, nor whether responsibilities will be divided in a new way. We recommend that the Government publishes a list of expected ministerial roles, with overviews of their portfolios and the reasoning behind these portfolios, b...

The FCO and DFID have shared ministers since February 2020, which may provide the model for ministerial portfolios in the new Department. However, it is not yet clear how many Ministers will serve in the new Department, whether the existing …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

The strength and reputation of the UK’s world-class aid delivery is in large part due to the skills and experience of DFID staff. We recommend that the Government makes staff retention a priority and implements a clear strategy for retaining DFID staff with valuable technical and programming expertise. This will require recognising DFID’s unique character as a Whitehall Department and preserving the ethos. There should also be clarity on how the Government intends to resolve any remuneration ...

The strength and reputation of the UK’s world-class aid delivery is in large part due to the skills and experience of DFID staff. We recommend that the Government makes staff retention a priority and implements a clear strategy for retaining …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

Diplomacy and development require different but complementary skillsets; it is vitally important that staff are clear on what specific skills staff will need to develop in order to undertake their responsibilities effectively and to progress in the new Department. Early indications should be given as to the skills and competencies that staff throughout the merged Department will be expected to develop for their new roles. We recommend that the Government makes staff development a priority, an...

Diplomacy and development require different but complementary skillsets; it is vitally important that staff are clear on what specific skills staff will need to develop in order to undertake their responsibilities effectively and to progress in the new Department. Early …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

The merger presents an opportunity for the FCO to learn from DFID’s positive record on transparency, and to be more proactive in publishing details of project expenditure. We recommend that the UK sets ambitious new commitments to aid transparency, to be reviewed on an annual basis. In its first year, the FCDO should strive to achieve a score of ‘Very Good’ on transparency of aid spending, as assessed by the Aid Transparency Index. The Government’s Development Tracker tool should also be main...

The merger presents an opportunity for the FCO to learn from DFID’s positive record on transparency, and to be more proactive in publishing details of project expenditure. We recommend that the UK sets ambitious new commitments to aid transparency, to …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

To ensure this goal is achievable, all staff in the FCDO working on development should have a thorough understanding of the international aid transparency frameworks and standards they are working towards. We recommend that all FCDO staff working on development projects or overviewing diplomatic outreach where aid is an element of the relationship, receive comprehensive training on the International Aid Transparency Initiative Standard.

To ensure this goal is achievable, all staff in the FCDO working on development should have a thorough understanding of the international aid transparency frameworks and standards they are working towards. We recommend that all FCDO staff working on development …

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23 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

As the aim of the merger is to harmonise UK foreign and development policy, it is essential that the Government does not focus solely on the ODA spend of the FCDO, but ensures that the new Department has responsibility for the coordination of ODA spending across Whitehall. In its response to this report, we ask the Government to set out the ways in which ODA spending by other Departments will support the delivery of the UK’s international objectives.

As the aim of the merger is to harmonise UK foreign and development policy, it is essential that the Government does not focus solely on the ODA spend of the FCDO, but ensures that the new Department has responsibility for …

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22 Jul 2020 | Policy paper Department for International Trade Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Foreign & Commonwealth Office linked

Official Development Assistance (ODA) spending for 2020: First Secretary of State's letter

Dominic Raab updated the chairs of 3 parliamentary committees on how the government will continue to meet the 0.7% Gross National Income spending commitment for ODA.

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↓ Official Development Assistance (ODA) spending for 2020: Fi… (2pp) ↓ Official Development Assistance (ODA) spending for 2020: Fi… (2pp) ↓ Official Development Assistance (ODA) spending for 2020: Fi… (2pp)
16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

In the light of developments since the publication of this Committee’s interim findings on the effectiveness of UK aid, we restate the recommendation we made in that report about significant reorganisations of UK aid: that the Government should present a statement to Parliament setting out an evidence-led rationale for any change; quantifying expected costs and how intended benefits justify the costs; and showing how both will be measured and controlled.

In the light of developments since the publication of this Committee’s interim findings on the effectiveness of UK aid, we restate the recommendation we made in that report about significant reorganisations of UK aid: that the Government should present a …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

UK aid spending amplifies the UK’s voice on the world stage, promoting our national interest by projecting our core values, and transforming the lives of people living in the very poorest countries. A potential shift of the UK’s ODA budget away from helping the very poorest people would be counterproductive - global poverty drives conflict and instability, and inaction on tackling poverty will compromise the other strands of the UK’s international policy.

UK aid spending amplifies the UK’s voice on the world stage, promoting our national interest by projecting our core values, and transforming the lives of people living in the very poorest countries. A potential shift of the UK’s ODA budget …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

Poverty reduction should continue to form a central part of the Government’s international policy. Accordingly, it should commit to targeting the majority of the UK’s ODA spend towards the very poorest countries. The Government should also set out how its refreshed international policy intends to work towards attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that no-one is left behind.

Poverty reduction should continue to form a central part of the Government’s international policy. Accordingly, it should commit to targeting the majority of the UK’s ODA spend towards the very poorest countries. The Government should also set out how its …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

The UK’s development legislation plays an intrinsic part in ensuring that aid is spent well and is focused upon poverty reduction. The very presence of this legislation demonstrates the UK’s role as a serious player in international development, and accordingly the Government should commit to maintaining the UK’s development legislation.

The UK’s development legislation plays an intrinsic part in ensuring that aid is spent well and is focused upon poverty reduction. The very presence of this legislation demonstrates the UK’s role as a serious player in international development, and accordingly …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government appoints a Minister for Development with responsibility for the totality of the UK’s aid spend, and that this Minister attends Cabinet. We also recommend that this Minister attends the National Security Council.

We recommend that the Government appoints a Minister for Development with responsibility for the totality of the UK’s aid spend, and that this Minister attends Cabinet. We also recommend that this Minister attends the National Security Council. Type: recommendation | …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

UK aid will increasingly have to balance short term diplomatic needs and initiatives with long term development objectives. Ultimately, ensuring that UK aid interventions are high quality is crucial to maintaining the UK’s reputation as a top-level development provider, and we are concerned that the FCO’s performance in ICAI reviews suggests it is not yet reaching the performance level required. The Government should set a target for all FCDO programmes to achieve a minimum ICAI grading of ‘g...

UK aid will increasingly have to balance short term diplomatic needs and initiatives with long term development objectives. Ultimately, ensuring that UK aid interventions are high quality is crucial to maintaining the UK’s reputation as a top-level development provider, and …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

To safeguard the effectiveness of UK aid interventions, the Government should set out how it intends to capture and retain DFID expertise in doing development well, and what plans are in place to rapidly train FCO staff in the skills necessary to manage effective and poverty reduction focused development programmes.

To safeguard the effectiveness of UK aid interventions, the Government should set out how it intends to capture and retain DFID expertise in doing development well, and what plans are in place to rapidly train FCO staff in the skills …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

Aid spending through the FCO continues to raise concerns relating to transparency and quality of programming. With the new FCDO set to become the largest Effectiveness of UK aid: potential impact of FCO/DFID merger 39 implementing department of UK aid spending, this trend is very concerning. The Government should set out how it intends to ensure that ODA administered through the new FCDO meets high standards for transparency in its programming. Consequently, it should commit to all UK ODA fun...

Aid spending through the FCO continues to raise concerns relating to transparency and quality of programming. With the new FCDO set to become the largest Effectiveness of UK aid: potential impact of FCO/DFID merger 39 implementing department of UK aid …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

Multilateral spending forms an important part of the UK’s ODA, but we are concerned that the merger may lead to an increase in funds provided to these organisations for generalised future spending rather than targeted funds delivering immediate benefits. As part of the Integrated Review, the Government should set out its strategy for development spending through multilateral institutions over the next five years, including the proportions of UK ODA to be spent through bilateral and multilater...

Multilateral spending forms an important part of the UK’s ODA, but we are concerned that the merger may lead to an increase in funds provided to these organisations for generalised future spending rather than targeted funds delivering immediate benefits. As …

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16 Jul 2020 | Committee report linked

Drawing upon the highly effective model of cooperation between the National Audit Office and Public Accounts Committee, the new ODA Committee should have responsibility for receiving and considering ICAI’s reviews. It should also have responsibility for the other aspects of cooperation and coordination with ICAI in which we currently participate, including recruitment of the Chief Commissioner and other commissioners; agreement of the forward work programme and commissioning work. (Paragraph ...

Drawing upon the highly effective model of cooperation between the National Audit Office and Public Accounts Committee, the new ODA Committee should have responsibility for receiving and considering ICAI’s reviews. It should also have responsibility for the other aspects of …

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2018

4 events

2016

3 events

2015

13 events

2014

33 events

2013

9 events

2012

3 events