Today the Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI) released its note on the ‘use of UK aid to enhance mutual prosperity’(1). The findings show that aid is increasingly being spent in areas that can both deliver benefit to the UK economy and countries that are eligible for aid. It stressed, however, that the primary aim of UK aid should remain poverty reduction to avoid risks or the dilution of impact.

Speaking in response, Romilly Greenhill, UK Director of The ONE Campaign, said: “It is vital that the primary focus of UK aid is tackling poverty, so Government should take note of these recommendations. 

“The report is correct to recommend developing a set of clear principles for all UK aid. Those principles should ensure aid is poverty focused, effective and transparent, bringing real change for the poorest people (2).This will show we truly are a Global Britain, working towards peace, progress and prosperity for all.” 

ENDS

Notes to Editors

• For more information on ICAI’s note, click here.
• ONE’s Real Aid Charter lists a series of principles that set out how to ensure all UK aid focuses on poverty alleviation, and on those who need it most. The charter is part of the Campaign for Real Aid, which calls for all UK aid spending to be poverty focused, effective and transparent. To read the full Charter for Real Aid, see here.