The Milton Keynes Council Labour/Liberal Democrat Progressive Alliance has spoken out after local MP Ben Everitt "breaks his promise" on the international aid target.
Last month, MP Ben Everitt was set to back an amendment to a Bill to ensure the 0.7% overseas aid commitment was maintained. After recent discussions with the Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, over the last few weeks an agreement was reached.
However, The Progressive Alliance has since spoken out after the announcement of the agreement and raised their concerns.
Councillor Pete Marland, Labour Leader of Milton Keynes Council, said: “In little over a month, Ben Everitt has gone from saying ‘When Britain makes a promise to the rest of the world, we keep it.’ to instead breaking that very promise.
“We simply do not know when the financial situation will reach the level required for aid spending to return to 0.7 per cent. This is unacceptable.”
Councillor Robin Bradburn, Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader of Milton Keynes Council, said: “Milton Keynes constituents deserve better. They deserve an MP who keeps their word, not one who U-turns on commitments.
“This decision is disappointing and damaging; it will have a drastic impact on the some of the most vulnerable people around the world.”
Describing why he believes why this move was necessary, Ben Everitt said: “I’ve seen first hand how organisations like World Vision support vulnerable children, whether through natural disasters or against exploitation and abuse, and it truly is a shining example of this leadership in action.
“I was genuinely concerned about dropping the 0.7% target as I worried it wouldn’t be temporary, but having spoken with the Chancellor, and working with colleagues, I’m now confident and assured the Government shares my commitment to return to 0.7% as soon as the circumstances allow.”
You can read more here - Milton Keynes MP Ben Everitt secures compromise with government to retain foreign aid budget
