Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Paragraph: 34
Ministers have suggested that the merger will deliver better value for money on overseas spending...
Recommendation
Ministers have suggested that the merger will deliver better value for money on overseas spending of UK taxpayer money, but have not clarified how this greater value will be delivered. The Government should provide a detailed explanation of how this merger will provide greater value for money on spending, and how it reached this conclusion in the absence of the findings of the Integrated Review.
Paragraph Reference:
34
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
There may be cost savings in the long term as a result of using resources more effectively and efficiently, but this is not the primary goal of this merger. As the Prime Minster outlined in his 16 July statement to the Parliament, the purpose behind the creation of the FCDO is to ensure that the UK’s development work and foreign policy are better aligned both with each other and with the broad UK national interest. This in turn will make our development work even more effective, and when carried out by a new department with the size, reach and expertise to project us effectively internationally, will ensure that we spend our development money in the best possible way. As noted above, it was right to take the decision to create the FCDO when we did in order that the Integrated Review could be used to shape the objectives and systems of the new department, and also capitalise on its creation, allowing us to maximise the UK’s influence around the world and safeguarding British interests and values overseas.