THE expression “charity begins at home”, used to criticise UK commitment to overseas aid, makes Government failure to provide adequate funding for services which support UK citizens, who are disabled or unemployed or in poverty as the result of circumstances they cannot control, appear to be a matter of charitable choice.
This is demeaning towards those who are not asking for charity, but the support they have every right to expect from their own Government.
It also overlooks the fact that UK Government foreign aid - much of it delivered via the World Bank - is used to facilitate UK trade; to reduce population pressure; to restrict the causes of climate change; to reduce conflict and to inhibit emigration.
As a major economic power our membership of the World Bank requires a substantial investment, which gives us a major voice in global finance.
This foreign aid is commendable, but it is not a simple, selfless, open-hearted gift to the less fortunate as were the millions of donations made by people across the country during the recent Christian Aid Week.
Maurice Vassie, Deighton, York
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel