Overview

This bill aims to legally mandate the UK government to meet the United Nations' target of spending 0.7% of its gross national income on Official Development Assistance (ODA) each year, starting in 2013. It also establishes an independent office to oversee and verify the efficient and effective use of ODA funds.

Description

The bill introduces a legal duty for the Secretary of State to ensure the 0.7% ODA target is met annually. If the target is missed, a statement explaining the reasons (e.g., economic or fiscal circumstances) and outlining corrective steps must be presented to Parliament. Section 3 of the 2006 International Development (Reporting and Transparency) Act is repealed. Crucially, the bill establishes an Independent International Development Office (IIDO) responsible for independently evaluating the effectiveness and value for money of ODA spending. The IIDO will be appointed by the Secretary of State for International Development and will report annually to Parliament.

IIDO Responsibilities:

• Independent evaluation of ODA's relevance, impact, value for money, and sustainability.
• Developing systems to verify efficient and effective ODA spending.
• Annual reporting to Parliament on its activities.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify a particular amount of government spending. The effect on government spending depends on the UK's gross national income and the measures required to meet the 0.7% target. Increased ODA spending would likely require adjustments to other areas of public expenditure or taxation. The cost of establishing and running the IIDO would also add to government spending, although exact figures are not provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• UK Government: Legally obligated to meet the 0.7% ODA target, requiring potential adjustments to budgeting and fiscal policy.
• International Development Organizations and Recipients: May experience increased or decreased funding depending on the UK's success in meeting the ODA target.
• UK Taxpayers: May see changes in taxation to fund increased ODA spending.
• The IIDO and its staff: Will be newly created roles, requiring establishment of the organization and employment of staff.
• Parliament: Increased scrutiny and accountability processes regarding ODA spending.

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