Christian Aid welcomed Gordon Brown’s pledge to introduce legislation to force British governments to spend 0.7 per cent of GDP on international aid in his speech at the Labour Party conference.
Christian Aid policy manager Alex Cobham said: ‘This closes the gap between the long held aspiration of the UN that countries should commit that amount, and what the British government at present gives, which is significantly lower - even after substantial increases under this government.
‘The figure actually dates back to a resolution passed by the UN general assembly in 1970.
‘Legislation in this area will allow the focus to switch to policies such as climate change – where the amounts given to poorer countries must be in addition to aid – and trade and tax justice.’
Mr Cobham said the legislation should be speedily introduced and called on the Conservative Party to give a similar undertaking at their conference next week.
For further information please contact Andrew Hogg on 020 7523 2058
Notes To Editors:
1. Christian Aid works in some of the world's poorest communities in nearly 50 countries. We act where the need is greatest, regardless of religion, helping people build the life they deserve.
2. Christian Aid has a vision – an end to poverty. Our new drive, Poverty Over, explains what we believe needs to be done – and can be done – to make that vision a reality. Details at www.christianaid.org.uk