Written question asked by Gregory Campbell (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 16 February 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 28 February 2011. It was answered by Alan Duncan (Conservative) on Monday, 28 February 2011 on behalf of the Department for International Development.

Burma: Overseas Aid

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for International Development what steps are being taken to ensure appropriate scrutiny of the recently announced increase in aid to Burma to reduce the risk of misappropriation of funds.

Answer: Future UK aid to Burma will continue to be delivered through the United Nations and reputable non-government organisations (NGOs) which have in place stringent monitoring mechanisms. UK funds will not be channelled through the Burmese central Government. Department for International Development (DFID) staff will monitor the delivery of our aid through field visits, direct contacts with beneficiaries, clear reporting requirements for recipient organisations and a close examination of their budgets and annual audited statements.UK aid will also be subject to independent evaluations. Large programmes in Burma will have mechanisms that enable beneficiaries to raise concerns and have them investigated.

Secondary information