Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 15
15
Paragraph: 36
As the aim of the merger is to harmonise UK foreign and development policy, it...
Conclusion
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.
Paragraph Reference:
36
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Integrated Review will define the Government’s ambition for the UK’s role in the world and the long-term strategic aims for our national security, defence, development and foreign policy. In conjunction with the Spending Review, the Integrated Review will set out the ways in which ODA spending by other Departments will support the delivery of the UK’s international objectives. The Review will cover all aspects of international policy, including international development, and we will continue to look at how the aid budget can be spent most effectively in our national interest and as part of a single UK strategy for each country. Delivery of Official Development Assistance programmes by departments across Whitehall to date has enabled us to leverage knowledge, skills and expertise from across Government, delivering programmes that contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and addressing the diversity of today’s development challenges. This collective effort has allowed our ODA programmes to deliver both strong development impact and benefits for British citizens. The Government remains committed to ensuring that every pound spent on ODA is spent transparently and achieves maximum value for money for taxpayers.