§ Mrs. Betty WilliamsTo ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will make a statement on UK investment in tackling poverty in developing countries. [1791361
§ Ruth KellyUK investment in tackling poverty has doubled in real terms since 1997 and will rise to nearly £5 billion by 2005–06—the highest ever level of UK development aid.
By 2005–06, 90 per cent. of the aid budget will be spent in the world's poorest countries, including a record £1 billion bilateral aid programme in Africa. We are also working closely with do eloping countries to ensure that aid is spent effectively and reaches those in greatest need.
As I announced in the Budget, we will not cut aid in the new spending round, but will continue to increase the resources that we give to the developing world.