11 June, 2017 – Today, the UK’s leading aid organisations welcome the reappointment of Priti Patel, but call on Secretary of State not to act unilaterally on UK aid reform. Over five million people support these organisations and stand with them to fight global poverty.

A joint statement from the group* said: “We welcome the re-appointment of Priti Patel as Secretary of State for International Development to deliver the Government’s manifesto commitment to meet its promises to the world’s poorest people.

“At a time when the world is facing the largest refugee crisis since the second world war and four countries stand on the brink of famine, British aid and leadership in tackling poverty and hunger are needed more than ever.

“If the Government is serious about delivering on their manifesto promise to eradicate poverty and save children’s lives, it is vital that they put the needs of the poorest first – negotiating the reform of UK aid on their behalf, and resisting any temptation to act unilaterally.”

###

Notes to Editors:

*The leading UK aid organisations who have signed this statement are: Save the Children, UNICEF UK, Oxfam GB, ONE, Christian Aid, Water Aid, Tearfund, CAFOD, Concern Worldwide, Plan International UK, Restless Development, IRC, RESULTS, VSO

 

For more information:

Unicef UK Press Office, [email protected], + 44 (0)207 375 6030

About Unicef

Unicef is the world’s leading organisation for children, promoting the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.

Unicef UK raises funds to protect children in danger, transform their lives and build a safer world for tomorrow’s children. As a registered charity we raise funds through donations from individuals, organisations and companies and we lobby and campaign to keep children safe. Unicef UK also runs programmes in schools, hospitals and with local authorities in the UK. For more information please visit unicef.org.uk