Development works and achieves tangible outcomes; both for the poor and for the advancement of the United Kingdom’s national interest. It is a smart policy choice for the UK to champion international development so the new Secretary of State, at the UK Department for International Development, must not shy away from making this case to the UK public. A focus on results is important but, as our recent research report 'The politics of the results agenda' shows, it is not the only answer to public (and political) scepticism about aid. A proactive case for the importance of aid must be made – and not just in response to vociferous protestations from portions of the UK press. We hope that Penny Mordaunt will be receptive to building a strong working, evidence-based, partnership that prioritises the needs of the most vulnerable whilst stridently defending the UK’s role in, and benefits from, a commitment to international development. In support of the 10 international development priorities we have identified for the UK, here our experts outline key areas that the Secretary of State must focus on if she is to drive forward the impact and perception of her department. |
