Ethiopia and Eritrea
Debate between Lord Lemos and Lord Dannatt
Lord Lemos (Lab)
I thank the noble Lord for that question. The Government recognise that we need a new approach to Africa to reflect that the world and Africa have changed. We must progress beyond the paternalistic approach of previous Governments, which too often saw relationships through the lens of old-fashioned aid and short-term deals. In June, a summary was published of a wide-ranging consultation undertaken with African Governments, multilateral institutions, businesses, civil society, creatives, academia and diaspora organisations. Led by the Foreign Secretary, this Government are drawing on the evidence to shape and inform the new approach. We believe the UK can be a partner to Africa to boost sustainable growth, combat the climate crisis, tackle insecurity and address our migration priorities, drawing on our shared cultural and people-to-people links. That will remain the Government’s view despite ministerial changes. That is our plan, and that is what we shall seek.
Lord Dannatt (CB)
My Lords, this conflict is another example of the UK’s reduced influence in the world as a result of our reduction in overseas development money. The previous Government took it down from 0.7% to 0.5% and the present one have taken it down from 0.5% to 0.3%—okay, we have increased our defence expenditure, but defence, diplomacy and development are the three cores of our influence. This conflict is another example of our diminished influence in the world. Would the Minister like to comment?
Lord Lemos (Lab)
I thank the noble Lord for that question. We are reducing ODA to the equivalent of 0.3% of GNI in order, as I think everyone knows, to fund defence spending at 2.5% of GDP by 2027. We remain committed to the 0.7% target when fiscal circumstances allow, as set out in the International Development Act. Reducing ODA now is a difficult but necessary decision to respond to the pressing security challenges. With regard to Ethiopia specifically, Ethiopia is a long-standing and important development partner to the UK and one of the largest recipients of UK ODA. Ensuring the protection of civilians is our top priority. Our ODA budget for Ethiopia is £161.7 million this year, making us one of the top three donors, and that gives us a great deal of influence with Ethiopia and in the wider region.