John Swinney hits out at reported UK Government cuts to Malawi aid

First Minister John Swinney has written to the foreign secretary urging her to block reported cuts to aid in Malawi.

Mr Swinney said he is “extremely concerned” about reports of large-scale cuts to the UK Government’s development assistance budget to the African country.

In his letter to Yvette Cooper, he said his recent visit to Malawi in October highlighted how urgent the need for ongoing aid to the country is.

First Minister John Swinney | Getty Images

It comes after the UK Government cut its overseas aid budget from 0.5 per cent of gross national income to just 0.3 per cent.

Mr Swinney said he was deeply disappointed by this cut, and said it is “very clear” that Malawi continues to face challenges to its health services, education and infrastructure, and is dealing with the impacts of climate change.

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In his letter to Ms Cooper, he said: “The Scottish Government is proud of its work to support Malawi.

“The UK Government too was once rightly proud of its efforts on international aid. Now we are seeing an alarming change in approach - cutting funding for those most in need at a time when that support is more necessary than ever.

“I ask you to reconsider the reported cuts and to take a position that allows our two governments to work in a spirit of collaboration to support the people of Malawi.”

He said Scottish ministers are still waiting to hear how cuts to the UK Government’s overseas aid budget will be implemented.

Mr Swinney added: “I have been extremely concerned, therefore, to read reports in the media suggesting impending, drastic cuts to Malawi.

“Regardless of the actions of the UK Government, the Scottish Government will continue to be a good global citizen and will continue to support and advocate for our partner countries like Malawi.”

Africa Minister Baroness Chapman said: “When this government came into office last year, we were clear that a new kind of relationship with African countries was needed, and that this was long overdue.

“Overdue because what we inherited was an approach that reflected the past rather than being fit for the future.

“So I am pleased today to set out a modernised approach, designed to mark a new chapter in the UK’s relationship with African countries. Consistent with the principles of our modernised approach to international development, recognising we are not donors.

“That is why the UK Government is committed to a modern development partnership with Malawi, using UK expertise to support Malawians with their own reforms.”