UK government undermines its presidency of COP26 after House of Commons approves aid budget cut

Reacting to the vote in the House of Commons supporting the UK government’s cut to the foreign aid budget, IIED director Andrew Norton said:
Press release, 13 July 2021

“It’s deeply disappointing that in this crucial year as the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic and the growing climate, environment and poverty emergencies, the UK is choosing to step back from playing a leading international role.

“The UK government’s decision to reduce aid spending has undermined its presidency of COP26 and leaves other wealthy nations rightly asking what moral authority the UK has to push for further climate finance commitments while reducing its own contributions.

“The success of the Glasgow summit, and the lives and livelihoods of millions of people, hang in the balance, as does the UK’s ability to leave a legacy after COP26.”

Contact

For more information or to request an interview, contact Sarah Grainger via email sarah.grainger@iied.org or 07803 116434.

For more information or to request an interview, contact Simon Cullen: 
+44 7503 643332 or simon.cullen@iied.org