Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 12
12
Paragraph: 31
We believe that, as the Government is maintaining its commitment to spending 0.7 percent of...
Recommendation
We believe that, as the Government is maintaining its commitment to spending 0.7 percent of GNI on ODA, the current level of scrutiny on ODA spend should also be maintained. The Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI) has shown itself be an effective and reputable vehicle for the scrutiny of the UK’s ODA spend. We recommend that the Government commits to maintaining ICAI as an independent body for scrutinising the UK’s overseas aid spending. Parliament should continue to be able to make full use of the important work of ICAI in scrutinising ODA spending; a dedicated select committee should have responsibility for all aspects of coordination and cooperation with ICAI.
Paragraph Reference:
31
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office remains committed to the highest standards for overseas spending and improving transparency of aid globally. ICAI plays a vital role supporting Parliament in the scrutiny of UK aid’s impact and helping to maintain these high standards. The Foreign Secretary has recently announced that ICAI will not only continue to provide independent scrutiny of aid spending, but will have its mandate broadened to provide policy recommendations alongside its critical analysis. The Foreign Secretary has also commissioned a review to make sure ICAI’s remit, focus and methods are effectively scrutinising the impact of UK Official Development Assistance, in line with the aims of the new department. The Government agrees that Parliament has an important role in scrutinising UK aid spending. Select committees are fundamental in scrutinising the Government’s spending and policies, and we are grateful for the constructive and collaborative approach adopted by the Foreign Affairs Committee. The Government’s view is that Select Committees in the Commons should generally mirror Government departments. The Prime Minister has said, he expects Parliament will want to set up a new committee to scrutinise the new department. Ultimately the structure and remit of Select Committees is a matter for Parliament.