12 July 2006
In a written question to the Secretary of State for International Development, Philip Dunne asks about the effectiveness of the EU's aid programme.
Mr. Dunne: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of aid delivered through the EU's aid programme; and if he will make a statement. [84340]
Mr. Thomas: The European Commission has improved the effectiveness of its aid substantially since 2000, when a major reform programme commenced. Today, delivery is faster and is implemented by a dedicated delivery agency (EuropeAid). Field offices are stronger, with better skilled staff. Projects are delivering more effective results, as shown byregular on-site assessments by independent experts. Nevertheless, there is still a case for further reform to improve aid effectiveness.
