MP CALLS ON UK TO MEET AID OBLIGATIONS IN SEASON OF GOOD WILL

MP CALLS ON UK TO MEET AID OBLIGATIONS IN SEASON OF GOOD WILL

PROMISE MUST BE HONOURED IN ANNIVERSARY YEAR

SNP International Development Spokesperson, Pete Wishart MP, has called on the UK Government to finally meet its international aid commitments – after 40 years of failing to do so.

In 1970, the UK committed to UN Resolution 2626 to donate 0.7% of its GDP to support poorer countries. In 2008, the UK’s contribution was just 0.48%.

2010 marks the 40^th anniversary of the pledge – and five years since the G8 promised to boost aid at Gleneagles.

Commenting, Mr Wishart said:

“In this, the season of goodwill, it’s time for a New Year’s Resolution from the UK Government.

“Times are tough in the UK but that’s no excuse - for forty years, we have let the poorest and most vulnerable in the world down by failing to meet international aid commitments. This shameful record has to end in 2010.

“Since coming to power in 2007, the SNP Government has doubled Scotland's international aid budget and is building strong links with Malawi and other Sub-Saharan nations.

“I visited Malawi earlier this year and I saw at first hand the very real difference that this vital support provides. From help delivering children’s meals to helping with infrastructure to support for agricultural programs Scotland’s relationship with Malawi is welcome and making a difference.

“Small, independent nations such as Denmark, Sweden, the Netherlands and Norway all meet their international aid commitments. If Scotland had the same fiscal rights and responsibilities as a normal country, we would be able to prioritise vital projects such as this.”

“Westminster is holding Scotland back.”