European Ministers take step towards ending secret deals

The European Union Competitiveness Council today agreed to progress legalisation to ensure oil, gas, mining and forestry companies publish what they pay to governments in return for their natural resources.

Adrian Lovett, Europe Director of ONE, said:

"Ministers have taken an important step towards ending the secret payments oil, gas and mining companies make to governments around the world. But getting the detail right is critical.  

"Detailed payments must be disclosed at the project level, that's what ordinary people in developing countries tell us they want. Without this an incredible opportunity to help lift millions out of poverty will be missed.

"A strong final law will empower citizens in developing countries with information they need to ensure revenues are invested in healthcare, transport and education, instead of lining the pockets of a few."

Notes to editors

For further information contact Katherine Sladden, katherine.sladden@one.org / +44 (0)7584 470 644.

ONE is a global advocacy and campaigning organization backed by more than 2.5 million people from around the world dedicated to fighting extreme poverty and preventable disease, particularly in Africa. For more information please visit www.ONE.org