Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask the Secretary of State for International Development, what steps her Department takes to ensure data gathering on the effects of its programmes is (a) accurate and (b) comprehensive.

DFID is committed to ensuring we gather accurate and appropriate data in order to effectively monitor the impact of our programmes. We work with our implementing partners to ensure robust programme monitoring frameworks are in place. All DFID programmes are subject to Annual Reviews and Project Completion Reviews which assess and record how funds have been used; the results delivered (including assessing data quality); and reviews the criterions routinely used to monitor the programme’s activities. Risks or issues identified during the reviews are recorded, addressed and monitored. DFID also often uses monitoring agents, independent audits, and other additional safeguards.

Headline data on results for our programmes are aligned with the strategic objectives in the UK Aid Strategy and summarised by sector in DFID’s Single Departmental Plan (SDP). The SDP results are published every year in DFID Annual Report and Accounts and produced according to published methodologies.