UK Aid Commons Vote, The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) response

London, 13th July 2021 –

Responding to today’s House of Commons vote on the UK Aid budget, The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) Director of Advocacy, Joanna Rea, said:

“While we appreciate the efforts of Parliamentarians to find a compromise with the UK Government to protect the 0.7% aid commitment, ultimately the result of today’s vote is deeply disappointing.

“The UK Government’s introduction of these fiscal tests will only lead to prolonged uncertainty for children and the lifesaving programmes that support them. For every pound cut, children living in some of the world’s worst crises and conflicts could suffer the consequences – with fewer children able to attend school, receive life-saving food and access critical healthcare services.

“We urge the Government to prioritise funding which saves children’s lives and set out a clear pathway to reinstating the 0.7% commitment, so we can secure a better future for every child.”

About UNICEF and UNICEF UK

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.

The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) raises funds for UNICEF’s emergency and development work for children. We also promote and protect children’s rights in the UK and internationally. We are a UK charity, entirely funded by supporters.

United Kingdom Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), Registered Charity No. 1072612 (England & Wales), SC043677 (Scotland).

For more information visit unicef.org.uk. Follow UNICEF UK on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.

For more details, please contact:

UNICEF UK Media Team, 0207 375 6030, [email protected]